Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Absolute Wellness Victoria, we believe that gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. PayID pokies and all forms of gambling carry inherent risks and should never be viewed as a reliable income source. We encourage all players to gamble responsibly and within their means.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities in Australia. If you are under the legal age, please do not use our services. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of identity at any time.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following warning signs in your own behaviour, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, groceries)
- Hiding gambling activity or lying to family and friends about how much you gamble
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when you're not gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
- Being unable to control or reduce your gambling despite wanting to
- Neglecting work, school, family, or other important responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling activities
- Using gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotional problems
- Experiencing relationship conflicts due to your gambling habits
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online gambling platforms offer the following responsible gambling features:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Establish a maximum amount you're prepared to lose before stopping play
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during your gaming session about how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Take a break from gambling by temporarily or permanently blocking access to your account
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic logout times to control how long you play
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
We encourage you to use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling habits.
Support Organisations in Australia
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:
- Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
A free and confidential telephone counselling service and online chat for people concerned about their gambling or the gambling of others. Available 24/7. - Gambler's Help
A Victorian service providing free counselling, support groups, and resources. Contact your local Gambler's Help service or call the statewide helpline.
Additional International Support Resources
Additional support organisations available in other regions:
- GamCare (United Kingdom) — www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (United Kingdom) — www.gamstop.co.uk
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) — www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) — www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you are experiencing problem gambling, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out — problem gambling is a recognised issue that affects many people, and professional support can make a real difference.
Contact Gambling Help Online today for free, confidential support. You can also speak to your GP, who can provide referrals to appropriate services.
Remember: gambling should be fun and entertaining. If it's causing you stress, financial hardship, or affecting your relationships, it's time to seek help. We're here to support responsible gaming practices.