Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

At Wildlife Tasmania, we believe that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment—similar to going to the cinema or a sporting event. It should never be considered a way to earn money or solve financial problems.

Betting sites are designed so that, over time, the house has a mathematical advantage. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses by betting more than you planned.

Age Verification

In Australia, you must be at least 18 years of age to gamble legally. We strictly enforce age verification on all our recommended betting sites.

If you are under 18, please do not attempt to use gambling services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor young people's online activities and discuss the risks of gambling.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Please be aware of these warning signs:

• Chasing losses: Attempting to recover lost money by gambling more
• Hiding gambling: Keeping your gambling activities secret from family or friends
• Losing control: Unable to stick to predetermined betting limits
• Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
• Increased stakes: Needing to bet larger amounts to feel the same excitement
• Using gambling to escape: Gambling to forget problems or relieve stress, anxiety, or depression
• Borrowing to gamble: Using credit, loans, or borrowed money to fund gambling
• Relationship strain: Experiencing conflict with loved ones about gambling habits
• Financial difficulties: Struggling to pay bills or manage debts due to gambling losses
• Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features

Reputable betting sites provide tools to help you maintain control. We recommend using these features:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping for the day or week
• Spending Limits: Control your overall spending on the platform
• Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications showing your time spent and money wagered
• Time-Out: Take a temporary break from gambling for a set period (hours, days, or weeks)
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from a betting site for a longer period (weeks to years)
• Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you choose to stop gambling entirely

Most betting sites allow you to set these limits before problems develop. Take advantage of these protective measures.

Support Organizations & Resources

If you are experiencing problems with gambling, free and confidential support is available:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Free counselling and support service for problem gambling in Australia
• Lifeline Australia
  Phone: 13 11 14 (24/7)
  Crisis support and counselling for all Australians
• Beyond Blue
  Phone: 1300 224 636
  Support for mental health and problem gambling related stress

United Kingdom

• GamCare
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  Free confidential support for problem gambling
• GamStop
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
  National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
  Evidence-based resources and support for problem gambling

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
  Free, confidential helpline available 24/7

Germany

• Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
  Website: www.bzga.de
  Federal Centre for Health Education - gambling addiction support

All of these organizations provide free, confidential, and non-judgmental support. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If You Have a Problem, Seek Help Today

Problem gambling is a real and treatable condition. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling:

• Contact one of the support organizations listed above
• Speak to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider
• Use self-exclusion tools immediately to restrict your access
• Remember: Recovery is possible, and help is available

You are not alone. Help is just a phone call or click away.

This Responsible Gaming information is provided for educational purposes. Wildlife Tasmania recommends only using licensed and regulated betting operators. For the most current information about gambling regulations in Australia, visit the NSW Liquor & Gaming Authority or your relevant state regulator.