Responsible Gaming
Our Commitment to Safe Gaming
At Surfing in Victoria, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies and gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you choose to play, please do so responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to access and use gaming services. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of age at any time. By accessing our site, you confirm that you meet the legal age requirement in Australia.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Neglecting work, family, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Relationships suffering because of your gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable gaming operators offer the following tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gaming sites for a set period or permanently
- Account Suspension: Temporarily pause your account if you need a break
Contact your gaming operator's customer support to activate these tools.
Support and Assistance in Australia
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free, confidential counselling and support service for people concerned about gambling. Offers online chat, phone support, and resources.
Lifeline Australia
Phone: 13 11 14 (24/7)
Crisis support and counselling for Australians experiencing emotional distress.
Beyond Blue
Phone: 1300 224 636 (24/7)
Website: www.beyondblue.org.au
Support for mental health and wellbeing issues that may be related to problem gambling.
Gamblers Anonymous Australia
Peer support meetings for people with gambling problems.
International Support Organizations
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion): www.gamstop.co.uk
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you think you might have a problem with gambling, reach out for help now. There is no shame in seeking supportβproblem gambling is a recognized condition, and recovery is possible. Contact Gambling Help Online or any of the organizations listed above. They are staffed by trained professionals who understand and can provide confidential assistance.
Remember: Gaming should be fun and entertaining. If it stops being fun, it's time to seek help.