Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At ABEWA, we believe that gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Pokies and online gaming should be fun and within your means. If you find yourself spending more than you can afford or gaming is affecting your life negatively, please seek help immediately.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your Australian jurisdiction) to use our services.
We take age verification seriously and comply with all Australian gambling regulations. If you are under the legal age, please do not attempt to access gaming services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs, you may be developing a gambling problem. Please take action:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling: Concealing the amount of time or money spent gambling from family or friends
- Loss of control: Unable to stop or reduce gambling despite wanting to
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Gambling with money you can't afford to lose: Using rent, bills, or essential funds for gaming
- Escalating stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
- Mood swings: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Failed attempts to cut back: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble: Taking loans or asking others for money to fund gaming
- Relationship and financial problems: Gambling is causing conflict or financial hardship
Self-Help Tools
Many gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control. Consider using these features:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose over a period of time
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders during gaming sessions to help you track time and spending
- Session Time Limits: Automatically end your gaming session after a set duration
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling services
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Take a mandatory break from your account
If your gaming provider doesn't offer these tools, or if you need additional support, contact one of the organisations listed below.
Support Organisations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential help is available from these trusted organisations:
Australia
-
Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free counselling service for people concerned about their own or someone else's gambling -
Gamblers Anonymous
Support groups and recovery programs across Australia -
National Gambling Helpline: 1800 858 858
Free, confidential phone support available 24/7
International Support (if accessing from outside Australia)
-
GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk -
GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk -
Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org -
National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Call to Action
If you think you have a gambling problem, reach out for help today. It's never too late.
Contact Gambling Help Online at www.gamblinghelponline.org.au or call the National Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free, confidential support available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Support is available, and recovery is possible.