Responsible Gaming
Our Commitment to Responsible Gaming
At rita-singhs-family-practice.com, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Playing pokies should be enjoyed as entertainment only, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you choose to play, please do so responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to access and use pokie gaming services. We do not permit access to minors under any circumstances. By using this site, you confirm that you meet the legal age requirement in Australia.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
- Gambling with money intended for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding or lying about gambling activities and expenditure
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when unable to gamble
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to reduce or control gambling
- Neglecting family, work, education, or other important responsibilities
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Experiencing relationship problems due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
Self-Help Tools and Controls
We encourage all players to use the following responsible gaming tools:
- Deposit Limits: Set a daily, weekly, or monthly spending limit you can comfortably afford to lose
- Loss Limits: Establish a maximum loss threshold and stop playing once reached
- Reality Checks: Use regular reminders to check your time and money spent while playing
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming if you feel your gambling is becoming a problem
- Session Time Limits: Set a timer to remind yourself to take breaks
- Budget Planning: Treat gambling as an entertainment expense within your leisure budget, not an income source
Support and Counselling Services
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free, confidential counselling and support services for problem gambling in Australia
- Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 — Free 24/7 crisis support
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 — Mental health support services
International Support
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk — Free gambling addiction support
- 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 have concerns about your gambling or suspect you may have a problem, please reach out for help immediately. There is no shame in seeking support. Professional counsellors are available to assist you confidentially and without judgment. Contact Gambling Help Online at www.gamblinghelponline.org.au or call 1800 858 858 (free call within Australia).
Remember: Your wellbeing is more important than any game. Help is available, and recovery is possible.