Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At emmashortis.com, we believe that online pokies and casino gaming should be enjoyed as 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 with a responsible mindset and within your means.
Remember: the house always has an edge, and outcomes are determined by random chance. Never gamble with money you can't afford to lose.
Age Verification
All users must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to access pokies and casino services in Australia.
If you are under 18, please do not proceed with gaming activities. Parents and guardians: help protect young people by monitoring their online activities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone else, seek help immediately:
- Chasing losses by gambling with increasing amounts of money
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Neglecting family, friends, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount of time or money spent
- Experiencing anxiety, depression, or irritability when not gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Feeling a need to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Withdrawal symptoms (restlessness, irritability) when trying to quit
If you tick any of these boxes, problem gambling support is available—and recovery is possible.
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Features
Most responsible gaming operators offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a chosen time period (daily, weekly, or monthly).
- Loss Limits: Cap the amount you're willing to lose over a specified period.
- Reality Checks: Pop-up reminders showing how long you've been playing and how much you've spent.
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Period: Temporarily suspend your account (typically 24 hours to 6 weeks) to take a break without self-excluding permanently.
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a set period (6 months to several years). This is a serious commitment and is legally enforceable.
Use these tools proactively. They're designed to support your wellbeing and keep gaming fun.
Support Organizations & Helplines
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. These organisations provide confidential support:
Australia
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Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free, confidential counselling and support for Australians affected by problem gambling.
United Kingdom
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GamCare
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free, confidential support and advice for gambling problems. -
GamStop
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling.
Canada
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Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Resources and support for problem gambling in Canada.
United States
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National Council on Problem Gambling
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Help line: 1-800-522-4700
Confidential support and referrals to treatment services.
International support is also available through Gamblers Anonymous and local mental health services in your region.
Need Help? Reach Out Today
If gaming is causing you or your loved ones distress, please don't hesitate to seek help. Speaking to a counsellor is free, confidential, and the first step towards recovery.
Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available right now. Contact one of the organisations above or speak to your GP for a local referral.
Gamble responsibly. Game for entertainment. Know your limits.