Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At byshannonmalone.com, we believe online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While online gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to gamble responsibly and within your means.
Remember: the house always has a mathematical advantage. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online pokies in Australia are only available to players aged 18 years and over. If you are under the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction, you must not participate in online gambling.
Licensed operators are required to verify your age before allowing you to play. Be honest during registration and account verification processes.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Check yourself against these warning signs:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding or lying about your gambling activity and spending
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essentials
- Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to reduce gambling
- Neglecting work, school, family, or social obligations due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to gamble
- Spending increasingly more time and money on gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or manage negative emotions
- Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling habits
If you recognise any of these signs, help is available.
Self-Help Tools & Limits
Most reputable online casinos offer responsible gaming tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a day, week, or month
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders about how long you've been playing
- Time Limits: Set automatic session timeouts to prevent extended play
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from your account
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
Use these tools proactively. They are free and designed for your protection.
Support & Help Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional support is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free, confidential counselling and support for Australians with gambling concerns
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free support and information for problem gamblers - GamStop (United Kingdom)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Evidence-based resources and support - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
National helpline: 1-800-522-4700
All support services are confidential and free to use.
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is a treatable condition. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If you're experiencing difficulty controlling your gambling, please contact one of the support organisations above today. Trained counsellors are available to help you at no cost.
You can also speak to your doctor, who can refer you to specialist gambling support services in your area.