Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At acbi.net.au, we believe that online pokies and gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to understand the risks and play responsibly.

Remember: the odds always favour the house. Never gamble with money you can't afford to lose.

Age Verification & Legal Requirements

Gaming is strictly for adults only. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online pokies in Australia.

By using acbi.net.au, you confirm that you are of legal age and comply with all applicable Australian gambling laws and regulations.

Parents & Guardians: If you're concerned about a young person's gaming activity, please speak with them and seek support from relevant authorities.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same level of excitement
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount of time or money spent
• Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gaming
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gaming
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gaming
• Unsuccessful attempts to reduce or stop gaming
• Using gaming to escape problems or difficult emotions
• Jeopardising relationships, education, or career opportunities

If you've checked any of these boxes, please reach out for support immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Features

Most reputable online gaming operators offer built-in tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
• Time Reminders: Receive alerts about how long you've been gaming
• Reality Checks: Regular pop-up notifications reminding you how much time and money you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming sites
• Account Closure: Request permanent closure of your gaming account

Use these tools proactively to stay in control of your gaming habits.

Support Organizations & Helplines

If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Here are trusted organisations that can provide support:

Australia (Primary Resource)

• Gambling Help Online
  Free, confidential counselling and support for problem gambling across Australia.
• Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
  General mental health and crisis support.

International Resources

• GamCare (UK)
  Free help and information for gambling problems.
• GamStop (UK)
  National multi-operator self-exclusion scheme.
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
  Resources and information for problem gambling.
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
  Information and referral services for problem gambling.

All support services listed are confidential and free to access.

Take Action Today

If you or someone you care about is experiencing problem gambling, please reach out for help now. There is no shame in seeking support—thousands of Australians do every year.

Don't wait for the problem to get worse. Contact Gambling Help Online or call Lifeline on 13 11 14 for free, confidential support.

Remember: responsible gaming makes gaming enjoyable for everyone. Play within your means, set limits, and know when to stop.