Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
Online gambling can be an enjoyable form of entertainment when approached responsibly. However, it's important to remember that gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
At Best Online Gambling Australia, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices across all our recommendations and affiliate partnerships.
Age Verification
Online gambling in Australia is only legal for individuals aged 18 years and over. All licensed online casinos operating in Australia are required to verify the age and identity of their players before allowing them to deposit funds or participate in gambling activities.
If you are under 18, we strongly encourage you not to gamble. Gambling at a young age can lead to the development of harmful gambling habits.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognize any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing Losses: Continuing to gamble in an attempt to recover money you've lost
- Hiding Gambling Activity: Being secretive about how much time or money you spend gambling
- Difficulty Stopping: Finding it hard to quit or take breaks from gambling
- Gambling with Money You Can't Afford to Lose: Using rent, bills, or essential expense money for gambling
- Preoccupation with Gambling: Thinking about gambling constantly, even when not playing
- Needing to Gamble More: Requiring larger bets or longer sessions to achieve the same excitement
- Mood Changes: Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
- Relationship Problems: Experiencing conflicts with family, friends, or partners about your gambling
- Lying About Gambling: Deceiving others about the extent of your gambling habits
- Borrowing Money to Gamble: Taking loans or using credit to fund gambling activities
- Jeopardizing Opportunities: Risking a job, relationship, or education due to gambling
Self-Help Tools and Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online casinos operating in Australia offer built-in tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on how much you can deposit into your account
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you're willing to lose during a specific time period
- Betting Limits: Control the maximum stake you can place on individual bets
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic disconnections after a predetermined period of gambling
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from a casino for a set period (days, weeks, months, or years)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your casino account if you wish to stop gambling
We recommend using these tools as part of your responsible gaming strategy. They're designed to help you maintain control and enjoy gambling safely.
Support Organizations and Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Here are trusted organizations that provide free, confidential support:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free counselling and support for problem gambling in Australia
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call, available 24/7)
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) – Free information, advice, and support
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) – Free national self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Information and resources for problem gambling
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) – Helpline and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
All of these organizations provide confidential support and can connect you with counsellors and support services in your area.
If You Need Help
If you believe you have a gambling problem, or if someone you care about does, please reach out for help immediately. There is no shame in seeking support—professional counsellors are trained to help people recover from problem gambling.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 today. This free, confidential service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can provide you with the support and resources you need.
Remember: gambling should always be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to take action.