Responsible Gaming
Entertainment, Not Income
Online casino gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. It is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Always gamble with money you can afford to lose, and remember that the house always has a mathematical edge. Set realistic expectations and play for fun, not profit.
Age Verification
All players must be at least 18 years of age or the legal gambling age in their state or territory to use online casinos in Australia. If you are under the legal age, please do not gamble. It is illegal and harmful to your development.
Parents and carers: If you have concerns about a young person's gambling, please reach out to support services listed below.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Are you experiencing any of these warning signs? If so, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
- Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, food, bills)
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Increasing the amount wagered to get the same level of excitement
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Lying about the extent of gambling involvement
- Borrowing money or going into debt to finance gambling
- Neglecting work, study, hobbies, or relationships due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
If you recognize yourself in these warning signs, please reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools
Most responsible online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose in a session or over a period
- Spending Limits: Control the total amount spent on gambling activities
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders about how long you have been playing and how much you have spent
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic stop times to prevent extended gambling sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Take a break from gambling by temporarily or permanently closing your account
Use these tools proactively. They are designed to protect you and help you stay in control.
Support Organizations
If you are struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Reach out to one of these trusted organizations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential, 24/7 support for Australians
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Provides counseling and support for problem gambling
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council – Supports problem gambling prevention and treatment
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling – Prevention, treatment, and research resources
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
All of these services are confidential, non-judgmental, and free to access.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible. You are not alone. Whether you are concerned about your own gambling or that of a loved one, please contact a support organization immediately. Speaking to a counselor is a positive first step toward regaining control of your life.
Contrabanned.org is committed to promoting responsible gaming. We support your right to play safely and responsibly.