Responsible Gaming

Gambling should remain enjoyable

Responsible gaming means making informed choices about when, how often and how much you gamble. Before you play, decide what amount of money and time you are comfortable spending. Treat that amount as an entertainment expense, similar to the cost of another leisure activity. Only gamble with money that you can afford to lose after essential living costs and financial commitments have been covered.

Gambling outcomes are based on chance. Past results do not determine future results, and a win is never guaranteed. No strategy can remove the risks associated with gambling. Avoid thinking of gambling as an investment, a reliable source of income or a way to recover money that has already been lost.

Helpful habits before you play

• Set a spending limit before starting and do not increase it during a session.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the screen.
• Keep gambling separate from money needed for rent, bills, food, education or other essentials.
• Do not borrow money, use credit intended for essential expenses or sell possessions to gamble.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, stressed, tired or under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Do not chase losses by increasing your stakes or playing for longer.
• Keep a record of your deposits, withdrawals, spending and playing time so your habits remain clear.
• Make sure gambling does not interfere with work, study, relationships, sleep or other activities.

Tools to help you stay in control

Pokiesurf Casino may provide account features that can help you manage your gambling. Depending on the options available through your account, these may include deposit limits, loss or wagering limits, session reminders, time-outs and self-exclusion. Review the relevant account settings and use the tools that best suit your circumstances.

A limit is most effective when it is chosen before you begin playing. Consider setting a limit that reflects your personal budget rather than choosing an amount based on a recent win or loss. If you reach your limit, stop playing. Do not attempt to work around a limit by opening another account or using another person's account.

Taking a break or self-excluding

If you would like to stop gambling for a period, a time-out or self-exclusion request may be appropriate. Self-exclusion is a voluntary step that restricts access to gambling for an agreed period or until a further review, depending on the option available. It should be treated seriously and not as a temporary inconvenience.

If you choose self-exclusion, do not try to bypass the restriction by creating a new account or gambling through someone else. Consider telling a trusted person about your decision and asking them to support you. You can also remove saved payment methods, limit access to gambling websites or applications and use blocking tools on your devices.

Account tools and requests may be subject to verification, processing requirements or other applicable conditions. If you need help finding a limit, break or self-exclusion option, use the available support channel on the website. Do not wait for a problem to become serious before asking for assistance.

Recognising signs of gambling harm

Gambling harm can affect a person's finances, mental health, relationships, employment and general wellbeing. It can develop gradually, and a person may not recognise the change immediately. Experiencing one sign does not automatically mean that someone has a gambling disorder, but several signs together may indicate that support is needed.

• Spending more time or money gambling than you planned.
• Trying to win back losses by gambling more often or using larger amounts.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when trying to cut down or stop.
• Keeping gambling secret from family, friends or people you normally trust.
• Borrowing money, missing payments or using money set aside for essentials.
• Selling belongings or taking financial risks to continue gambling.
• Thinking about gambling throughout the day or finding it difficult to concentrate on other activities.
• Neglecting work, study, family, sleep or personal responsibilities.
• Arguing with people close to you about gambling or experiencing relationship problems because of it.
• Feeling shame, hopelessness, distress or regret after gambling.

What to do if gambling is becoming difficult

If any of these signs feel familiar, stop and consider taking a break or requesting self-exclusion. Speak honestly with someone you trust and avoid trying to manage the situation alone. A qualified gambling counsellor can help you understand your options, prepare a plan and address financial or personal concerns without judgement.

You do not need to wait until you have experienced serious financial loss before seeking help. Early support can make it easier to change habits and reduce the impact on you and the people around you.

Support, safety and account responsibility

For independent assistance in Australia, consider contacting Gambling Help Online or a gambling support service available in your state or territory. These services can provide information, counselling and guidance for people who gamble and for family members or friends affected by gambling. Support may be available online, by phone or in person through the relevant service.

If gambling has created financial pressure, consider speaking with a qualified financial counsellor. A financial counsellor may help you review debts, prioritise essential payments and develop a practical plan. Do not rely on further gambling to solve a financial problem.

If you feel overwhelmed, unsafe or at immediate risk of harming yourself or another person, stop gambling and seek urgent assistance through the appropriate emergency or crisis support service in your area. Your immediate safety is more important than any account, balance or gambling activity.

Protecting young people and other users

Gambling is intended for adults who meet the applicable age requirements. Do not allow children or other unauthorised people to access your account. Keep your login details private, use suitable device security and log out when you finish playing. Parents and guardians should consider device settings, payment controls and age-appropriate conversations about online gambling.

You are responsible for the activity carried out through your account, subject to applicable account and security processes. If you believe another person has accessed your account, contact the website's available support service promptly and change your account credentials. Do not share passwords, verification codes or payment information with anyone.

Responsible gaming is an ongoing choice. Review your habits regularly, use the available controls and take a break whenever gambling stops feeling like entertainment. Pokiesurf Casino encourages players to make informed decisions and to seek independent support whenever it may be helpful.