Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment Only
At Devon Port Takeaway's Payid Pokies AU guide, we believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Pokies and online gambling carry real risks, and it's important to understand your limits before you play.
If you choose to gamble, do so responsibly and within your means. Set a budget you can afford to lose, and never chase losses.
Age Verification
Gambling in Australia is only legal for individuals aged 18 years or older. If you are under 18, you must not use gambling services or access pokies venues.
By using any gambling service recommended on this website, you confirm that you are legally of age to gamble in your jurisdiction.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately:
- Chasing losses: Continuing to gamble to win back money you've lost
- Hiding gambling: Keeping your gambling activity secret from family or friends
- Spending more than planned: Gambling longer or with more money than intended
- Neglecting responsibilities: Prioritising gambling over work, family, or personal duties
- Financial problems: Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Mood changes: Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to cut down on gambling
- Escalating stakes: Needing to bet more money to achieve the same excitement
- Relationship strain: Arguments with loved ones about gambling habits
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most licensed gambling providers in Australia offer responsible gaming 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: Cap the amount you're willing to lose during a session or over time
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders showing how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Session Limits: Set automatic time limits for your gambling sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling services
- Account Closure: Close your account if you need to take a break from gambling
Always use these tools if available, and take advantage of them to maintain control over your gambling.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
Australia (Primary Resources)
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free, confidential counselling and support for problem gamblers and their families
- Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 — Crisis support available 24/7
- Gambling Help Services (by state): Contact your local state gambling support service for tailored assistance
International Resources
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk — Information and support for problem gambling
- 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 — 1-800-GAMBLER
If You Need Help
Do not hesitate to reach out. Problem gambling is a serious issue, but help is available and recovery is possible.
Contact Gambling Help Online today for free, confidential support. You can speak with a trained counsellor by phone, email, or live chat.
Your wellbeing matters. Seek help now if you're struggling.