Safe Online Gambling - Tips and Advice

Responsible Pokies Play at BETO

Written by: Kim Birch | The review was last updated: 03 July 2024 | Fact-check by: Jasmin Williams

Kim Birch

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Kim Birch has battled against the best poker pros around the world. As an expert in poker and blackjack, Kim's also penned 3 books. About Kim Birch

TABLE OF CONTENT

1. Responsible Pokies Play at BETO
2. Fair Go: Why Gamble Responsibly?
3. Responsible Pokies: What's the Go?
4. Responsible Pokies Play Tips
5. Pokies Addiction: Understanding the 'Punt Problem'

6. Spotting the Signs: Are You Gambling Too Much?
7. Safeguarding Aussie Kids from Online Pokies
8. Responsible Gambling: What's the Go?
9. Discreet Help for Pokies Players
10. Responsible Pokies - Common Questions Answered

For most punters, online gambling is a bit of fun and a form of entertainment. But for a small number of people, it can become a real issue.

Here at BETO, we reckon responsible gambling is the way to go for everyone. We're committed to promoting safe and responsible online gambling operators and offering support to those who might be struggling to keep their gambling in check. Our goal is to help make the internet a safer place for all users, regardless of how much risk they're comfortable with.

The licensed sites BETO recommends all offer these features:

Set deposit limits - You can set daily, weekly or monthly deposit limits, and adjust them as needed.
Set reality checks with reminders and time-outs to help you manage your online time.
Take a Break - Choose a break period from 24 hours up to several weeks.
View your gaming history - Check your transaction, deposit and withdrawal history to keep tabs on your activity.
Self-Exclusion - Option to self-exclude and stop gambling altogether, from six months to five years.

Video: Safe Online Gambling - Tips and Advice

Responsible Pokies - Staying Safe with Online Real Money Games

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Fair Go: Why Gamble Responsibly?

Why is Responsible Gambling crucial?

Gambling addiction's a serious issue affecting a small chunk of Aussies. While most can enjoy a punt on pokies and other casino games without drama, some are more likely to develop a problem.

These days, online casinos and the gambling industry are bringing in Responsible Gaming teams to tackle the issue and help prevent problem gambling. These teams work on educating punters about the red flags of gambling addiction and make sure their marketing isn't targeting vulnerable players.

We'll dive into what gambling addiction is, how to spot if someone's struggling, and the ways casinos are fighting addiction. We'll also share some resources if you or someone you know is battling with gambling addiction.

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Responsible Pokies: What's the Go?

Responsible gambling is about taking smart steps to minimise the risks that come with having a punt. This includes setting yourself spending limits, sticking to a budget, and only gambling what you can afford to lose. It might also mean taking breaks or choosing not to gamble at all.

Those who practice responsible gambling see it as just another form of entertainment. They factor it into their household budget, set limits and stick to them. They don't expect to win back losses or see gambling as a way to make money. It's crucial to remember that all gambling carries risks, so being aware of these and how to minimise them is key to enjoying a safer gambling experience.

Social Responsibility in Online Gambling

Social responsibility in online gambling is about both operators and punters conducting themselves responsibly to minimise harm.
While there's no one-size-fits-all definition, as it varies based on local laws and regulations, generally it includes:

Ensuring gambling is conducted fairly and transparently.
Protecting minors and vulnerable individuals.

Problem gambling can harm not just the individual, but also their family, mates, community, and workplace.

Early and appropriate communication can help someone keep their gambling in check and maintain a healthy relationship with betting. This approach is better for punters and more sustainable for betting companies in the long run.

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Responsible Pokies Play Tips

Set a strict pokie budget and stick to it, mate

There's no universal approach to safe gambling – it really depends on your own habits and preferences. But here are some solid tips for responsible punting:

Set a time limit and stick to it.
Set a budget and don't go over it.
Gamble for fun, not profit (it's like paying for a night out).
Don't bet when you're upset or stressed.
Learn the rules before risking real cash.
Use the pokies' built-in tools to track your play and spending.
Take regular breaks - grab a cuppa, stretch your legs, get some fresh air.
Accept that losing is part of the game (you're paying for entertainment).
Don't gamble to make money (it's not a side hustle, it's leisure).
Never borrow to gamble, even from yourself (only use your entertainment budget).
Don't let online gambling mess with your relationships or work (if it does, stop).
Don't chase losses (expect to lose)

Follow these tips and you'll be on the right track for safer gambling.

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Pokies Addiction: Understanding the 'Punt Problem'

Is your punting becoming a bit of a worry, mate?

Problem gambling, or ‘pokies addiction’, is a mental health issue marked by an overwhelming urge to gamble and an inability to stop. It can wreak havoc on your finances, relationships, and overall wellbeing.

Those struggling with gambling addiction often can't quit, even when facing dire consequences. They might keep punting despite knowing the odds are stacked against them.

This serious condition needs proper treatment. Options include counselling, therapy, and in some cases, medication. Many find that a combination of approaches works best, such as joining support groups and educational programs through gambling help services.

The stats show blokes are at higher risk, but that could shift as more women get into online pokies.

Starting young is another red flag. Teens playing online illegally might be setting themselves up for lifelong dramas, given their brains are still developing.

Lastly, punters with pre-existing mental health issues like ADHD, anxiety, or depression are more vulnerable. These conditions can make it tough to weigh up long-term consequences, leading to risky behaviour.

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Spotting the Signs: Are You Gambling Too Much?

Spotting the Signs: Do I Have a Pokies Problem?

Wondering if your punting's gone from fun to full-on? Ask yourself these questions:

Do you spend heaps of time alone on the computer, even skipping work or other stuff to have a punt?
Have you ever fibbed about winning when you were actually losing?
When you're not having a flutter, do you get cranky or on edge?
Reckon you gamble to dodge other dramas in your life?
Have you had to up the stakes to get the same buzz?
Tried and failed to cut back on time or cash spent gambling?
Ever been tempted to do something dodgy to fund your habit?
Gone back online to chase your losses?
Kept your punting secret from your nearest and dearest?
Borrowed money you couldn't pay back because of gambling, or racked up debt?
Ever flogged something to get gambling money or clear gambling debts?
Find yourself breaking promises to family and mates to have a punt?

If you've ticked 'yeah' to any of these, you might want to use the tips below to get your gambling under control.

You can also take the anonymous 'Worried about your gambling?' quiz on the BeGambleaware website and use their Gambling Calculator to see if your punting's becoming a drama.

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Safeguarding Aussie Kids from Online Pokies

Safeguarding Aussie Youth from Online Pokies

BETO's got your back with top-notch safety measures for our punters. All players, new and old, need to verify their age before they can have a crack at our pokies.

We've got layers of security to keep the baddies out of our systems, and we're always on the lookout for any dodgy behaviour.

But let's face it, underage kids might still find ways to access pokies, maybe nicking their parents' devices or sussing out an adult's login. So here are some crucial steps to keep the young'uns safe:

Have a yarn with your kids about the risks of underage gambling.
Suss out the parental controls on your computer, tablet, and mobile to block gambling content.
Keep your pokie login, password, and banking details under wraps and away from the kids.
Save your pokie passwords and steer clear of auto-fill on your devices.
When you're done, make sure to log out of your account.
Chuck some website filtering software on your devices, like NetNanny, to block the kids from accessing online gambling sites.

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Responsible Gambling: What's the Go?

Online pokie sites have dedicated teams trained to spot signs of problem gambling. These pros work together on addiction prevention strategies, and support staff are clued in to notice when punters get too worked up. Plus, these sites have rolled out features to help you keep tabs on your gaming habits.

Any legit online pokie joint you visit these days will have a Responsible Gambling section with tips on how to play it safe, those handy tools we mentioned, and links to proper help if things get dicey. It's all about keeping you in check and making sure the pokies don't take over your life.

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Discreet Help for Pokies Players

Find help if your pokies habit's spinning out of control

The National Gambling Helpline is just one of many support services available for those dealing with gambling issues. If you or someone you know is struggling, there are plenty of confidential helplines ready to lend an ear and offer advice.

The National Gambling Helpline is a top-notch resource for anyone grappling with gambling problems.

There's a wide range of support groups out there for people battling gambling addiction. If you or someone close to you is having a hard time, don't hesitate to reach out to one of these helpful services.

Gambling Help Online: 1800 858 858
Gamblers Anonymous Australia: (02) 9726 6625
Relationships Australia: 1300 364 277
Gambling Help NSW: 1800 858 858
Gambler's Help Victoria: 1800 858 858

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Responsible Pokies - Common Questions Answered

What's the Go with Responsible Gambling?

Responsible gambling means having a punt in a safe and controlled way that minimises the risk of developing dramas. It's about setting clear boundaries on your time and cash spent on the pokies or other betting, and sticking to those limits. Smart punters only wager what they can afford to lose and never try to win back their losses. It's all about keeping things fun and under control.

What's Responsible Gambling All About?

Responsible gambling is all about keeping things in check when you're having a punt. It's smart to set yourself some limits on how much you're willing to spend, and to be aware of the signs that your gambling might be getting out of hand. Taking these steps can help ensure your pokies play stays fun and doesn't become a drama.

How's BETO safeguarding punters from pokies harm?

BETO is committed to safeguarding punters from the risks of problem gambling. We offer essential info and resources on responsible gambling, while collaborating with pokie providers to encourage safe betting practices. Our team also conducts research to gain deeper insights into gambling-related harm and its impacts.

Where can I find help for my pokie addiction?

If you're struggling with gambling, reach out to the Gambling Help Online service. You can call 1800 858 858 for a chat with a counsellor, or visit their website for online support: https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/

How to reach Gambling Help Online?

Gambling Help Online
Address:
1 Farrer Place
Sydney NSW 2000 Phone: 1800 858 858
email: [email protected]

Safe Online Gambling - Tips and Advice

Responsible Pokies Play at BETO

TABLE OF CONTENT

Video: Safe Online Gambling - Tips and Advice

Fair Go: Why Gamble Responsibly?

Responsible Pokies: What's the Go?

Social Responsibility in Online Gambling

Responsible Pokies Play Tips

Pokies Addiction: Understanding the 'Punt Problem'

Spotting the Signs: Are You Gambling Too Much?

Safeguarding Aussie Kids from Online Pokies

Responsible Gambling: What's the Go?

Discreet Help for Pokies Players

Responsible Pokies - Common Questions Answered

What's the Go with Responsible Gambling?

What's Responsible Gambling All About?

How's BETO safeguarding punters from pokies harm?

Where can I find help for my pokie addiction?

How to reach Gambling Help Online?

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