Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

At Ballarat Gift, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or dining out. It should never be considered a way to make money or solve financial problems.

Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and always set strict limits on your spending before you begin.

Age Verification

In Australia, you must be at least 18 years of age to participate in gambling activities. We take age verification seriously and encourage all users to verify their age before accessing betting sites.

If you are under 18, please do not gamble. Gambling at a young age can lead to harmful habits and serious financial consequences.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you experience any of the following, you may have a gambling problem. Please seek help:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Hiding your gambling activities or lying about how much you gamble
• Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
• Feeling anxious or irritable when not gambling
• Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Neglecting work, study, family, or relationships due to gambling
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop gambling
• Experiencing financial difficulties as a result of gambling
• Feeling a need to gamble with increasing amounts of money for the same effect

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most reputable betting sites offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose over a set period
• Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling sites
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic cut-off times for your gambling sessions

Use these tools proactively to help maintain healthy gambling habits.

Support Organizations & Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. Here are trusted organizations in Australia and internationally:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online — Free, confidential counselling and support
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Gamblers Anonymous Australia — Peer support groups and meetings
• Lifeline Australia — 24/7 crisis support: 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue — Mental health support: 1300 224 636

United Kingdom

• GamCare — Free counselling and support
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop — Self-exclusion scheme
  www.gamstop.co.uk

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council
  www.responsiblegambling.org

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling — 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
  www.ncpgambling.org

Germany

• Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) — Federal Centre for Health Education

If You Need Help, Reach Out Today

Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, income, or background. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you're experiencing gambling-related difficulties, please contact one of the support organizations listed above. They offer free, confidential, and non-judgmental assistance.

Remember: It's never too late to ask for help. Support is available 24/7.