Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Melbourne Tea Festival, we believe that gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Playing pokies should be fun and within your means. If you find yourself relying on gambling as income or a solution to money troubles, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities. If you are under 18, please do not access gaming services. We take age verification seriously and comply with all local regulations.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of these warning signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gambling
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Lying about the extent of your gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable gaming operators offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount you're willing to lose in a session
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set duration
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
Support Organisations in Australia
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, please reach out to these trusted Australian organisations:
Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free, confidential counselling and support for problem gambling in Australia. Available 24/7.
Gambling Help Online Counselling Service
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call)
Speak to a counsellor over the phone about your gambling concerns.
Lifeline Australia
Website: www.lifeline.org.au
Phone: 13 11 14
24-hour support for anyone in crisis, including those affected by problem gambling.
Beyond Blue
Website: www.beyondblue.org.au
Phone: 1300 224 636
Support for mental health and wellbeing, including gambling-related stress.
International Support Resources
If you're accessing services from outside Australia, these organisations may assist:
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
Call to Action
If you think you or someone you care about has a problem with gambling, please seek help today. There is no shame in reaching out. Professional support is available, confidential, and free.
Contact Gambling Help Online at 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au to speak with a counsellor.
Remember: Gaming is for entertainment. If it stops being fun, it's time to stop.