Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies and casino games should only be played as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical edge, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Remember: gambling outcomes are determined by chance. There is no guaranteed way to win, and no strategy can overcome the built-in advantage of the casino.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to access and use EPNationals.com and participate in online gambling in Australia. It is illegal for anyone under 18 to gamble online.
If you are under 18, please do not use this website. If you are aware of minors accessing gambling sites, please report this to the relevant authorities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing losses: Trying to recover money lost by gambling more
- Hiding gambling: Concealing the extent of your gambling from family or friends
- Gambling with money meant for essentials: Using funds needed for bills, rent, or groceries
- Increasing stakes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to feel the same excitement
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Mood changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or depressed when unable to gamble
- Failed attempts to reduce: Repeatedly trying and failing to cut back on gambling
- Borrowing money: Taking loans or credit to fund gambling
- Lying about gambling: Being dishonest about how much time or money you spend
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools and Controls
Most reputable online gambling sites offer 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 maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders of how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Session Time Limits: Automatically log out after a set period of gameplay
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling sites for a period you choose (typically 6 months to several years)
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you decide to stop gambling
Use these tools proactively. They are designed to protect you and help you gamble responsibly.
Support Organisations in Australia and Beyond
If you or someone you care about is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Contact these organisations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential support service
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Telephone: 1800 858 858 (24/7, free call) - Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support meetings
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.au - Lifeline Australia – Crisis support
Telephone: 13 11 14 (24/7)
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free counselling and support
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling – Helpline and resources
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (24/7)
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council – Education and support
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Federal centre for health education
Website: www.bzga.de
If You Need Help
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available.
If you experience problems related to gambling:
- Contact Gambling Help Online at www.gamblinghelponline.org.au or call 1800 858 858
- Speak to a trusted family member, friend, or counsellor
- Visit your GP for referral to specialist services
- Use the self-exclusion tools on gambling websites
Recovery is possible. Help is just a call or click away.
Disclaimer: EPNationals.com is an affiliate website providing information about online pokies in Australia. We are committed to promoting responsible gambling practices. If you choose to gamble, please do so responsibly and within your means. For licensed and regulated gambling services in Australia, visit the official websites of your state or territory's gambling regulator.