Responsible Gaming
Our Commitment to Responsible Gaming
At Bonnie's McDougall, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. We believe that online gaming should be an enjoyable form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you choose to play pokies or other games, please do so responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to access and use gaming services in Australia. If you are under the legal age, you are not permitted to participate in any gaming activities. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of age at any time.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of the following warning signs in your behaviour, please seek help immediately:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than you intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or others
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent on gambling
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, anxiety, or depression
- Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
- Experiencing mood changes (irritability, restlessness) when trying to cut down on gambling
- Failed attempts to control, reduce, or stop gambling
- Jeopardising relationships, employment, or educational opportunities because of gambling
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Many gaming operators offer tools to help you maintain control over your gaming. Consider using these features:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose over a set period
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders during your gaming session to check how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms to take a break or stop completely
- Time Limits: Set session time limits to prevent extended gaming periods
Always use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support & Help Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional support is available. The following organisations offer free, confidential assistance:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free, confidential counselling and support service for people concerned about their own or others' gambling - Lifeline Australia
Phone: 13 11 14
24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention service - Beyond Blue
Phone: 1300 22 4636
Support for depression, anxiety, and mental health concerns
International Support
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Take Action Today
If you suspect you have a gambling problem, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in reaching out — support services are confidential, free, and staffed by trained professionals who understand problem gambling.
Remember: gambling should never be seen as a solution to financial problems or emotional difficulties. If you're struggling, contact one of the organisations listed above or speak to someone you trust.
Last updated: 2026