Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At Petersham Health, we believe that online gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it responsibly and within your means.

Remember: the house always has an edge. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses by betting more than planned.

Age Verification

Online gaming in Australia is strictly regulated and available only to individuals who are:

• 18 years of age or older
• Legal residents of Australia

We are committed to preventing underage gambling and conduct age verification checks on all accounts. If you are under the legal age, please do not attempt to register or access gaming services.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Watch for these warning signs in yourself or others:

• Chasing Losses: Attempting to win back money lost by gambling more
• Hiding Gambling Activity: Concealing the extent of gambling from family or friends
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations due to gambling
• Increasing Bets: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
• Loss of Control: Being unable to stop or limit gambling sessions
• Financial Hardship: Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Mood Changes: Becoming irritable or anxious when unable to gamble
• Tolerance: Requiring longer or more frequent gaming sessions for enjoyment
• Failed Attempts to Quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
• Using Gaming to Escape: Gambling to relieve stress, anxiety, or depression

If you recognise any of these signs, it's time to seek support.

Self-Help Tools & Controls

We offer a range of tools to help you maintain control of your gaming:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders during play about how long you've been gaming and how much you've spent
• Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set period to prevent extended play
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming services
• Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you decide gaming is not for you

These tools are available through your account settings. We encourage all players to use them proactively.

Support & Help Resources for Australia

If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Please reach out to one of these trusted Australian organisations:

• Gambling Help Online
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Phone: 1800 858 858
  A free and confidential service providing counselling and support for problem gambling across Australia.
• Lifeline Australia
  Phone: 13 11 14
  Available 24/7 for crisis support and emotional assistance.
• Beyond Blue
  Phone: 1300 224 636
  Support for mental health and wellbeing, including gambling-related issues.

International Resources:

• GamCare (UK) – www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop (UK) – www.gamstop.co.uk
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – www.ncpgambling.org

If You Need Help, Please Reach Out

Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, take action today:

• Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858
• Use the self-exclusion tools available in your account
• Speak to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional
• Seek counselling from a qualified mental health professional

You are not alone. Help is available, and recovery is possible.

Our Commitment

Petersham Health is committed to promoting responsible gaming practices and supporting the wellbeing of our users. We take problem gambling seriously and work with licensed operators and regulatory bodies to ensure a safe gaming environment.

For more information about our responsible gaming policies, please contact us directly.