Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Bear in a Window, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Playing pokies should only ever be viewed as entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Set a budget you can afford to lose and stick to it.
Age Verification
All players using our recommended pokies venues must be 18 years of age or older. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble in Australia. If you are under the legal age, please do not participate in gaming activities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to win back money
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Hiding your gambling activities from family, friends, or partners
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social responsibilities
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
- Unable to stop or cut down on gambling despite wanting to
- Lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Jeopardising relationships, career, or educational opportunities
Self-Help Tools & Strategies
Most venues offer these responsible gaming features:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to spend before you start playing
- Loss Limits: Limit the maximum losses you're willing to accept in a session
- Time Limits: Set an alarm to remind you when your gaming session should end
- Reality Checks: Request pop-up reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming venues or online platforms
- Take Breaks: Step away regularly and never gamble when emotionally vulnerable
Support & Help Services
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free confidential counselling and support
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 - Gamblers Anonymous Australia – Peer support groups across Australia
www.gamblersanonymous.org.au
International Resources
- UK – GamCare
www.gamcare.org.uk - UK – GamStop
www.gamstop.co.uk - Canada – Responsible Gambling Council
www.responsiblegambling.org - USA – National Council on Problem Gambling
www.ncpgambling.org
Need Help?
If you're experiencing gambling-related problems, please reach out for support immediately. There is no shame in asking for help, and professional support services are available free and in confidence. Your wellbeing is important.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Bear in a Window is committed to responsible gaming. This information is provided for harm minimisation purposes. If you choose to gamble, please do so responsibly and within your means.