Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
PayID pokies and online gaming should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Like any form of entertainment, it costs money and carries risks. Always gamble within your means and only with money you can afford to lose.
If you find yourself gambling more than intended or experiencing negative consequences, help is available and support is just a phone call away.
Age Verification
Gaming via PayID pokies is strictly for individuals aged 18 years and over in Australia. It is illegal for anyone under the legal gambling age to participate in online or venue-based gaming. If you are under 18, please do not use these services.
All gaming platforms are required to verify your identity and age before allowing access to gaming services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognise these warning signs in yourself or others:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling: Concealing the amount of time or money spent gaming
- Loss of control: Inability to stop or cut down on gaming despite wanting to
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, study, or family commitments due to gaming
- Borrowing to gamble: Using credit cards, loans, or borrowed money to fund gaming
- Mood swings: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Escalating stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
- Financial problems: Struggling to pay bills or facing debt due to gambling
- Relationship strain: Gaming causing conflict with family, friends, or partners
If you recognise any of these signs, it may be time to seek support.
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Most responsible gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you're willing to lose in a session or timeframe
- Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic session timeouts to limit gaming duration
- Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications during gaming sessions to reflect on your activity
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
- Account Closure: Close your account if you wish to stop gaming altogether
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support Organisations in Australia
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential help is available:
Australian Resources:
- Gambling Help Online
Free and confidential counselling service for people affected by problem gambling in Australia. Phone: 1800 858 858 (24/7) or webchat available online.
International Resources:
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
Free support and information for problem gamblers and their families. - GamStop (United Kingdom)
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling in the UK. - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Evidence-based information and resources for problem gambling in Canada. - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Resources and helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).
If You Need Help
You are not alone. Problem gambling is a recognised health issue, and recovery is possible with proper support.
If gaming is causing you distress, financial hardship, or affecting your relationships and wellbeing:
- Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 (available 24/7, free and confidential)
- Visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for webchat counselling
- Speak to your GP or a mental health professional
- Reach out to a trusted friend or family member
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Support is available right now.