Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At Australian Zoetrope, we believe that gambling should only be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. PayID pokies and online gaming are games of chance where the odds always favour the house. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses by gambling more.
Age Verification
Gambling in Australia is strictly regulated. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in any form of gambling, including pokies. It is your responsibility to verify that you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction before engaging with any gambling services.
If you are under 18, please do not use gambling services. Parents and guardians should monitor online activity to protect young people from gambling exposure.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognise these warning signs in yourself or others:
- Chasing losses: Gambling more to try to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling: Concealing gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
- Loss of control: Inability to stop gambling or stick to set limits
- Financial problems: Using money needed for bills, rent, or essential expenses to gamble
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or important commitments due to gambling
- Borrowing money: Taking loans or using credit to fund gambling activities
- Mood changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Escalating stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Relationship strain: Arguments with loved ones about gambling habits
If you recognise any of these signs, it's important to seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most responsible online gambling platforms offer 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 maximum amount you can lose over a set period
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic reminders or session cut-offs to prevent extended gambling periods
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications during play to remind you of time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
- Account Suspension: Request a break from gambling services
Always use these tools proactively. Setting limits before you start gambling is more effective than trying to control behaviour during play.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free counselling and support service
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free, confidential, 24/7)
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free support for problem gambling
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (free, confidential)
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Federal Centre for Health Education
Website: www.bzga.de
If You Need Help
Don't wait until the problem becomes severe. Seeking help early is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you're experiencing difficulties with gambling:
- Contact one of the support organisations listed above
- Speak to a trusted family member, friend, or healthcare provider
- Use the self-help tools available on gambling platforms
- Consider professional counselling or therapy
Recovery is possible, and support is available. Reach out today.
Australian Zoetrope is committed to promoting responsible gambling. All information on this page is provided for informational purposes. Always gamble responsibly and within your means. If you have concerns about your gambling habits, please seek professional help.