Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Big Bethanie Bakeoff, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Pokies and online gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the movies or playing sports. It should never be considered a way to earn money or solve financial problems.
The house always has an edge. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and never use gambling as a solution to financial difficulties.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities, including pokies and online gaming. By accessing our content, you confirm that you meet this legal requirement.
We take age verification seriously and encourage parents and guardians to monitor young people's online activities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate a problem gambling issue:
- Spending more money or time gambling than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, anxiety, or depression
- Neglecting work, study, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Unable to cut down or stop gambling despite wanting to
- Experiencing mood changes, irritability, or anxiety when unable to gamble
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Damaged relationships due to gambling behaviour
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Options
Most reputable online gaming operators offer built-in 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 limit on losses you're willing to accept during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications during gaming sessions to remind you how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Period: Temporarily exclude yourself from your account for a set period (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily exclude yourself from gaming platforms
Take advantage of these tools if you feel your gaming is becoming problematic. Many operators also allow you to request manual account reviews.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Here are trusted organisations that provide free, confidential support:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free counselling and support services for Australians affected by problem gambling
- Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 — General mental health and emotional support (24/7)
United Kingdom
- GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk — Free support for problem gambling in the UK
- GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org — Resources and information for responsible gaming
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org — Information and referrals for problem gambling support
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): Information and resources on responsible gaming
If You Need Help
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out to one of the support organisations listed above. They offer:
- Free, confidential counselling
- Practical advice and strategies
- Support for family members and loved ones
- Treatment options and referrals
Remember: it's never too late to seek help. Many people have successfully overcome problem gambling with professional support.