Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Flamingo Merchant, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Remember: the house always has a mathematical edge, and outcomes are determined by random chance.
If you find yourself spending more than you can afford to lose, it's time to seek support.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online gambling activities. We take age verification seriously and comply with all relevant Australian gambling regulations. By using our services, you confirm that you meet this legal requirement.
If you're under 18, please do not attempt to gamble. Underage gambling can lead to serious harm.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If any of the following apply to you, problem gambling may be developing:
- Chasing losses by gambling with more money to recover what you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling with money allocated for essential expenses (rent, bills, groceries)
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
- Gambling longer or with more money than originally intended
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social relationships due to gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
If you recognise yourself in any of these warning signs, please reach out for help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Establish a maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping play
- Session Time Limits: Set reminders to take breaks during your gaming sessions
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up notifications to remind you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently block access to your account when you need a break
Use these tools proactively to protect yourself and maintain healthy gambling habits.
Support Organizations in Australia
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free, confidential counselling and support service for people experiencing gambling problems. Available 24/7 across Australia.
Gambling Help Services β State-Based Support
Each Australian state and territory offers dedicated gambling help services:
- Victoria: Gambling Help Services β 1800 858 858
- NSW: Gambling Help Services β 1800 633 635
- Queensland: Problem Gambling Services β 1800 006 886
- South Australia: Gamblers Help β 1800 858 858
- Western Australia: Problem Gambling Services β 1800 858 858
- Tasmania: Gambling Help Services β 1800 858 858
- ACT: Gambling Help Services β 1800 858 858
- NT: Gambling Help Services β 1800 858 858
Additional International Support
If you're in other regions, these organisations provide excellent 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
Take Action Today
If you believe you have a gambling problem, or if someone you care about is struggling, please seek help now. There is no shame in reaching outβproblem gambling is a real issue, and recovery is possible with the right support.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for immediate assistance.
Remember: Your health and wellbeing are more important than any game. Reach out today.