Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At ambulance.care, we believe online gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Pokies and casino games are games of chance with outcomes determined by random number generators. They should never be viewed as a way to earn money, solve financial problems, or generate income. Always gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses.
Age Verification
Online gambling is strictly regulated in Australia. You must be 18 years of age or older (or the legal age in your state if higher) to access gambling services. By using ambulance.care, you confirm that you meet the legal age requirement for your jurisdiction.
If you are under the legal age, please do not access gambling services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor young people's online activity.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following warning signs in your own behaviour, please seek help immediately:
- Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Loss of control: Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
- Hiding gambling: Concealing your gambling habits from family, friends, or partners
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, family events, or personal obligations due to gambling
- Financial strain: Borrowing money, using credit, or facing debt due to gambling
- Emotional dependency: Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other problems
- Tolerance: Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Irritability when not gambling: Feeling restless or anxious when unable to gamble
- Failed attempts to stop: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Relationship conflicts: Arguments with loved ones about gambling behaviour
Self-Help Tools & Features
Many online gaming platforms offer responsible gaming tools to help you maintain control. These may include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a session or period
- Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set period to help manage playing time
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders during play showing how long you've been gaming and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from an online gaming platform for a period you choose (typically 6 months to permanently)
- Take a Break: Temporarily suspend your account to step back from gambling
- Cool-Off Period: Request a mandatory cooling-off period before reopening your account
We strongly encourage you to use these tools proactively, even if you don't currently feel you have a problem.
Support & Help Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Please reach out to one of these organisations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential counselling and support
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (toll-free, 24/7)
International Resources
- UK – GamCare
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - UK – GamStop (National Self-Exclusion Scheme)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk - Canada – Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org - USA – National Council on Problem Gambling
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Need Help?
If you or someone you care about is experiencing problems with gambling, please seek help today. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and support is available. You don't have to face this alone.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 for free, confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Your wellbeing is important. Please gamble responsibly.