Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At kathrynnewton.org, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Pokies and online gambling should only be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or playing sports. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and understand that the house always has a mathematical edge. Gambling should never be considered a way to earn money or solve financial problems.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities, including pokies. This is a legal requirement designed to protect young people. If you are under 18, please do not use any gambling services on this website or elsewhere.
Parents and guardians: We encourage you to discuss responsible gaming with young people in your care and to use parental controls where available.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognise these warning signs in yourself or others:
- Chasing losses: Gambling more to try to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling: Being secretive about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Increasing stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
- Loss of control: Unable to stop or reduce gambling despite wanting to
- Neglecting responsibilities: Gambling affecting work, relationships, or family obligations
- Borrowing to gamble: Taking loans or using credit to fund gambling activities
- Mood changes: Becoming anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
- Lying about gambling: Deceiving friends and family about gambling habits
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
If you recognise any of these signs, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Player Protections
Most responsible gaming operators offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a day, week, or month
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on how much you're willing to lose during a session
- Reality Checks: Regular pop-up reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Periods: Temporarily suspend your account for a set period (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a longer period (months or years)
- Account Statements: Review detailed records of your gambling activity
Take advantage of these tools to protect yourself and maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support Organisations & Help Services
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free counselling and support services for Australian residents affected by problem gambling
- Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 — General counselling and crisis support available 24/7
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 — Mental health support services
United Kingdom
- GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk — Free support and information for problem gamblers
- GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org — Evidence-based resources and support
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org — Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (available 24/7)
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): Information and support for problem gambling in German
No matter where you are located, support is available. Please reach out.
If You Need Help, Seek It Now
Problem gambling is a serious issue that affects individuals and families across Australia and worldwide. If you're experiencing difficulties with gambling, please know that:
- Help is available and effective
- Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness
- Support services are confidential and non-judgmental
- Recovery is possible
Contact Gambling Help Online today at www.gamblinghelponline.org.au or speak to your local health provider. You don't have to face this alone.
Our Commitment
kathrynnewton.org is committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and supporting the wellbeing of our users. We encourage all players to gamble responsibly, within their means, and to seek help if gambling becomes a problem.