Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Gerald A Cottage, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only – never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you choose to play, do so with money you can afford to lose and always play within your limits.
Age Verification
Online pokies are strictly for adults only. You must be 18 years of age or older to access and use any gaming platforms. This is both a legal requirement in Australia and essential for player protection.
If you're under 18, please do not proceed with gaming activities. We encourage young people to seek alternative entertainment options.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know, it may indicate problem gambling:
- ☐ Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- ☐ Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount spent
- ☐ Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- ☐ Unable to cut back or stop gambling despite wanting to
- ☐ Experiencing anxiety, irritability, or restlessness when trying to stop
- ☐ Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- ☐ Borrowing money or accumulating debt to fund gambling
- ☐ Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
- ☐ Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling habits
- ☐ Gambling to escape negative emotions or problems
If you've checked any of these boxes, help is available. Please reach out to a support service immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Many gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the total amount you're willing to lose during a session
- Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic session timeouts to control how long you play
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders during play to help you stay aware of time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
We strongly encourage you to use these tools as part of your responsible gaming strategy.
Support Organisations in Australia
If you're struggling with gambling, these organisations provide confidential support and resources:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Confidential counselling and support for problem gambling
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (24/7, free and confidential) - Gambler's Help – Victorian problem gambling service
Phone: 1800 858 858
International Support
- GamCare (UK) – Counselling and support services
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
www.ncpgambling.org
Need Help? Take Action Today
If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties with gambling, please seek help immediately. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available.
Remember: Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The organisations above provide confidential, non-judgmental support to anyone who needs it.
If you're in crisis, please contact Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 (24 hours, 7 days a week)
Our Commitment
Gerald A Cottage is committed to promoting responsible gaming and player protection. We support the implementation of industry best practices and encourage all players to gamble responsibly. If you have any concerns about your gaming habits or need assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us or reach out to one of the support organisations listed above.