Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. They are not a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. The odds always favour the house, and losses are a normal part of gambling. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.

Age Verification

You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your Australian state or territory) to access and use online pokies and casino services through nickmcgowan.net.

If you are under the legal age, please do not proceed. Underage gambling is illegal and harmful.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you recognise any of the following signs in your own behaviour, you may be developing a gambling problem:

• Chasing losses by gambling more money to recover what you've lost
• Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
• Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
• Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other negative feelings
• Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
• Lying about how much time or money you spend gambling
• Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
• Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
• Using gambling as a way to solve financial problems

If any of these apply to you, please seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Many online gambling providers offer tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit over a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before stopping play
• Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long and how much you've been gambling
• Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set period of play
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gambling sites

Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gambling habits.

Support Organisations & Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential counselling and support
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call)

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Counselling and support
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme
  www.gamstop.co.uk

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council
  www.responsiblegambling.org

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling
  www.ncpgambling.org
  National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700

Germany

• Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Federal Centre for Health Education
  Gambling addiction information and support resources

If You Need Help

Do not hesitate to seek support. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Contact one of the organisations listed above for free, confidential advice and counselling. You can also speak to your GP, a counsellor, or a trusted friend or family member about your concerns.

Remember: It's never too late to ask for help.