Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Surfing Invictoria, we believe that gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While online pokies can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach them with a responsible mindset. Set a budget you can afford to lose, play for enjoyment, and remember that the house always has an edge. Gaming should never interfere with your relationships, work, or financial wellbeing.
Age Verification
All players must be 18 years of age or older to access pokie games in Australia. We are committed to preventing underage gambling. If you are under 18, we encourage you to speak with a trusted adult about responsible gaming practices.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognize any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding or lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses like rent, food, or bills
- Neglecting family, work, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
- Increasing the amount of money or time spent gambling to achieve the same excitement
- Feeling anxious or depressed when not gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling activities
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from problems or negative emotions
Self-Help Tools
Many gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a cap on how much you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders during play to help you track time spent and money wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently ban yourself from accessing pokie platforms
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic disconnections after a specified period of play
Support & Resources in Australia
If you or someone you care about is struggling with problem gambling, confidential help is available:
Primary Australian Resource:
Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Confidential counselling and support services for problem gamblers and their families across Australia. Available 24/7.
International Support Options:
GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free, confidential support and information for anyone concerned about their gambling.
GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling in the UK.
Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Resources and information for responsible gaming practices.
National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Support and treatment referrals for problem gamblers.
Take Action Today
If you believe you have a gambling problem, please reach out for help immediately. There is no shame in seeking support—many people have successfully overcome problem gambling with the right assistance. Contact Gambling Help Online or speak with a healthcare provider. Your wellbeing is more important than any game.