Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Little Eden Border Collies, we believe that gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Playing pokies should be fun, social, and within your means. If you find yourself viewing gambling as an income source or a solution to financial difficulties, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
All players 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 gamble. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of identity.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognize any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know?
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover lost money
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
- Hiding or lying about gambling activities and amounts spent
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to cut down or quit
- Losing interest in hobbies, family, or work due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
- Failed attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Relationships, employment, or education affected by gambling
If any of these apply to you, please reach out for support immediately.
Self-Help Tools
Most gaming platforms offer built-in tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Set an automatic end time for your gaming sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Contact these trusted organizations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online — Free, confidential counselling and support
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (24/7, free call) - Gamblers Anonymous Australia — Peer support meetings
www.gamblersanonymous.org.au - Beyond Blue — Mental health support
Phone: 1300 224 636
International Support
- UK: GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk
- UK: GamStop — www.gamstop.co.uk
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council — www.responsiblegambling.org
- USA: National Council on Problem Gambling — www.ncpgambling.org
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung — www.bzga.de
Call to Action
If you think you have a gambling problem, please seek help today. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. The sooner you address the issue, the better your chances of recovery. Whether you contact Gambling Help Online, speak to a counselor, or talk to a trusted friend or family member, support is available and waiting for you.
Remember: You are not alone, and help is always available.