Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At Matt Shevs Media, we believe that online gaming and pokies should be enjoyed purely as entertainment. Gambling is not a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Please only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and always set strict limits on both time and spending.
If you ever feel that your gambling is affecting your wellbeing, relationships, or finances, help is available and support is just a phone call away.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to legally participate in gambling activities, including online pokies. We are committed to preventing underage gambling and protecting young people.
If you are under 18, please do not access gambling services. If you are a parent or guardian concerned about a young person's gambling, contact the support organisations listed below.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Please review the following checklist. If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, professional support is available:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding your gambling activities from family or friends
- Gambling with money meant for bills, rent, or essential expenses
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
- Spending increasing amounts of time or money on gambling
- Lying about how much you gamble or how often
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
- Experiencing relationship conflicts related to gambling
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer built-in tools to help you maintain control. Consider using:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a chosen timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose before taking a break
- Reality Checks: Enable notifications reminding you of the time and money spent during your session
- Time Limits: Set a maximum session duration and receive warnings before your time expires
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms if needed
- Cool-Off Periods: Take a mandatory break from gambling to reassess your behaviour
Use these tools proactively to maintain a healthy relationship with online gaming.
Support Organisations in Australia & Beyond
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out to one of these trusted organisations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free, confidential support and counselling services for all Australians affected by problem gambling.
United Kingdom
- GamCare
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free information, advice, and support for problem gamblers and their families. - GamStop
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling in the UK.
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Evidence-based education and support to promote responsible gambling.
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Confidential helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (available 24/7)
National resource for problem gambling support and referral services.
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
Website: www.bzga.de
Federal Centre for Health Education with resources on gambling addiction.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling can happen to anyone, regardless of age, background, or income. It is not a sign of weakness to ask for help—it is a sign of strength.
If you are experiencing difficulties with gambling:
- Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 (free call in Australia)
- Visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for online chat and counselling
- Speak confidentially with a trained counsellor
- Share your concerns with a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider
Help is available. You are not alone.
This Responsible Gaming information is provided for educational purposes. Matt Shevs Media is committed to promoting safe and responsible gaming practices. Always gamble responsibly and within your means.