Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At Big SA, we believe gambling should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. It is important to understand that online pokies and casino games are games of chance with a built-in house edge. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and always set limits before you play.
Age Verification
All users must be 18 years of age or older to access gambling services in Australia. By using BigSA.org.au, you confirm that you are of legal gambling age in your jurisdiction. If you are under 18, please do not gamble. Gambling is illegal for minors and can cause serious harm to young people.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognize any of the following warning signs in your gambling habits? If so, you may be developing a problem:
- Chasing Losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding Gambling: Being secretive about how much you gamble or lying to friends and family
- Increasing Amounts: Needing to gamble with more money to get the same excitement
- Loss of Control: Inability to stop or reduce your gambling despite wanting to
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Gambling is affecting your work, studies, or relationships
- Financial Problems: Borrowing money to gamble or gambling with money needed for essentials
- Mood Changes: Gambling to escape problems, stress, anxiety, or depression
- Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to cut back on gambling
If you identify with several of these signs, please reach out for help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Many gambling platforms offer tools to help you stay in control. Consider using these features:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on the amount of money you're willing to lose
- Session Time Limits: Set a maximum duration for your gambling sessions
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders during play to help you stay aware of time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling sites
- Take a Break: Step away from gambling for a set period to reassess your habits
Professional Support & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. These organizations offer confidential support:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free counselling and support for problem gambling in Australia
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free, confidential, 24/7) - Gamblers Anonymous Australia – Peer support and recovery programs
www.gamblersanonymous.org.au
International Resources
- GamCare (UK) – Free support for problem gambling
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible with support. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please don't hesitate to seek help. Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 (available 24/7) or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for confidential support.
Remember: It's not a sign of weakness to ask for help—it's a sign of strength.