Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At johnsaylesretro.com, we are committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Pokies and online gambling should be enjoyed as entertainment only, never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage, and all games are based on chance.
If you choose to gamble, set a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it. Have fun responsibly.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older (or the legal gambling age in your territory) to access gambling services and pokies platforms in Australia.
If you are under 18, please do not participate in gambling activities. Gambling at a young age can lead to serious harm and addiction.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do any of these warning signs apply to you? If so, seek help immediately.
- Chasing losses by gambling with more money to recover what you've lost
- Gambling longer or with more money than intended
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about gambling to friends and family
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other negative emotions
- Borrowing money or getting into debt to fund gambling
- Experiencing relationship problems or conflict over gambling
- Unable to stop or reduce gambling despite wanting to
- Experiencing anxiety or irritability when not gambling
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable gambling operators provide tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit in a given timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Cap the maximum amount you're willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications about your gambling activity and time spent
- Session Limits: Set time limits for your gambling sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
Always use these tools proactively. Speak to your gambling operator about implementing these safeguards on your account.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, confidential help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free, confidential counselling and support for problem gambling across Australia
- Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 (24/7) — Crisis support and counselling
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 (24/7) — Mental health support
International Resources
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK Self-Exclusion): www.gamstop.co.uk
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org | 1-800-522-4700
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but recovery is possible. If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, please seek help immediately. There is no shame in asking for support.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 or visit their website for free, confidential counselling available 24/7 across Australia.
Your wellbeing matters. Help is available.