Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At The Prohibition Bar, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only – never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Gaming outcomes are based on chance, and the house always has a mathematical advantage in the long term.
Please gamble responsibly and within your means. Set limits you can afford to lose and stick to them.
Age Verification
Online pokies are strictly for players aged 18 years and over in Australia. It is illegal for minors to engage in gambling activities. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of age at any time.
If you are under 18, please do not attempt to use gaming platforms. If you're concerned about a minor's gambling activity, contact the appropriate support services listed below.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be honest with yourself and watch for these warning signs:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling activity: Being secretive about the time or money spent gambling
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble: Using credit cards, loans, or borrowed funds to fund gambling
- Gambling with money meant for essentials: Using money for bills, rent, or groceries to gamble instead
- Lying about gambling: Being dishonest with friends and family about your gambling habits
- Increasing stakes: Needing to bet more money to get the same excitement
- Failed attempts to stop: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or quit gambling
- Mood changes: Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Relationship strain: Gaming causing conflict with partners, family, or friends
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Many online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control. Consider using:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you're willing to lose in a gaming session
- Time Limits: Set session duration limits to prevent extended gambling sessions
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders that pop up during play to check how long you've been gaming
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from accessing gaming platforms for a set period or permanently
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Contact these trusted organizations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au – Free counseling and support for problem gambling in Australia
- Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 – 24/7 crisis support (call or text)
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 – Mental health support available 24/7
International Resources
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk – Free support and counseling
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk – National self-exclusion scheme
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (US): www.ncpgambling.org – 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
Take Action Today
If you think you might have a gambling problem, please reach out for help now. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes. You are not alone.
Contact Gambling Help Online today for confidential, free support. A counselor can help you develop strategies to regain control.
Emergency Support: If you're in crisis, please contact Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 or text 0477 131 114. Help is available 24/7.