Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At Sydney Cup BJJ, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. It's important to understand that gambling should only ever be viewed as entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Pokies and online gaming should be enjoyed for fun, with money you can afford to lose.

If you're spending more than you can comfortably afford, or if gaming is affecting your relationships, work, or wellbeing, please seek help immediately.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online pokies and gambling activities in Australia. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of identity.

If you are under 18, please do not access gambling services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to use parental controls and monitoring software to prevent underage access.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Do you recognize any of these warning signs? If so, problem gambling may be affecting your life:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
• Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, bills, food, medication)
• Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
• Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to gambling
• Experiencing mood swings, irritability, or anxiety when not gambling
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
• Feeling unable to control your gambling urges

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Many online gaming platforms offer built-in tools to help you stay in control. Consider using these features:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose per day, week, or month
• Session Time Limits: Receive reminders or automatic disconnection after a set gaming period
• Reality Checks: Regular pop-up reminders showing your time played and money spent
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
• Account Closure: Close your account if you decide to stop gambling entirely

Take advantage of these tools to maintain control over your gaming activity.

Support Organizations & Resources

For Australian Residents:

• Gambling Help Online
  Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Free, confidential online counselling and support services for problem gambling in Australia
• Gamblers Anonymous
  Peer support meetings across Australia for people with gambling problems
• National Problem Gambling Helpline
  Call 1800 858 858 for free, confidential support (24/7)

International Resources:

• GamCare (United Kingdom)
  Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
  Support for problem gambling in the UK
• GamStop (United Kingdom)
  Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
  National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
• Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
  Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
• National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
  Website: www.ncpgambling.org
  Call 1-800-522-4700 (confidential helpline)

If You Need Help

Problem gambling is a real issue that affects many Australians. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling:

• Contact Gambling Help Online at www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Call the National Problem Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858 (available 24/7)
• Speak to your GP or mental health professional
• Reach out to a trusted friend or family member

Help is available. You are not alone. Please reach out today.