Responsible Gaming

Our Commitment to Safe Gaming

At Emma Shortis, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Gaming and pokies should be enjoyed as a form of 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

In Australia, all players must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities, including online pokies. We take age verification seriously and will refuse access to anyone under the legal gambling age. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to gamble.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available:

• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Hiding gambling activities or lying about the time and money spent
• Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when unable to gamble
• Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
• Jeopardising relationships, education, or career opportunities

Self-Help Tools

Most reputable online gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specified timeframe
• Loss Limits: Cap the amount of money you're willing to lose during a gaming session
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling sites
• Cooling-Off Periods: Take a break from gambling for a set period

Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gaming habits.

Support Organizations

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available from trusted organisations:

• Gambling Help Online (Australia)
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Free and confidential counselling and support services for Australians affected by problem gambling.
• Gambling Help – Phone Counselling
  Call 1800 858 858 (toll-free, 24/7)
  Professional counsellors available to discuss concerns and provide referrals.
• Gambler's Help (Victoria)
  www.gamblerhelp.vic.gov.au
• Lifeline Australia
  Call 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
  www.lifeline.org.au
• GamCare (UK-based, multi-jurisdictional support)
  www.gamcare.org.uk

Take Action Today

If you believe you have a gambling problem or are concerned about your gaming habits, please seek help immediately. Speaking to a counsellor is confidential, non-judgmental, and free. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is always available.

Remember: gambling should only ever be entertainment you can afford to lose. Never gamble with money needed for essentials like rent, food, or bills.