Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At Future Sparks, we believe that online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money, solve financial problems, or make a living. If you find yourself relying on gambling for income or as a solution to money troubles, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your state or territory) to use our services. By accessing futuresparks.org.au, you confirm that you meet the legal age requirement for gambling in Australia.
If you are under the legal gambling age, please do not proceed with any gaming activities. Underage gambling is illegal and harmful.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognize any of these signs in your own behaviour? If so, problem gambling may be affecting your life:
- Chasing losses — trying to win back money you've lost by gambling more
- Hiding or lying about your gambling activities from friends or family
- Spending more time and money on gambling than you intended
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce or stop gambling
- Gambling to escape problems, stress, anxiety, or negative emotions
- Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
- Neglecting work, family, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Experiencing financial difficulties or debt related to gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or quit gambling
- Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
If you've ticked any of these boxes, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Features
Many online gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to spend in a given period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you're prepared to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive regular 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 sites
- Time Limits: Set reminders to take breaks during your gaming session
- Account Pause: Take a break from gambling for a set period without closing your account
Use these tools to play within your means and stay in control of your gambling habits.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help and support are available. Here are trusted organizations for Australia and internationally:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online — Free, confidential counselling and support
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (24/7)
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) — Support and counselling
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) — National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) — Information and resources
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) — Helpline and support
www.ncpgambling.org
If You Have a Problem, Seek Help Today
Problem gambling is treatable, and recovery is possible. You don't have to face this alone. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling:
- Reach out to Gambling Help Online: 1800 858 858 (24/7, free and confidential)
- Visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for online counselling and resources
- Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or health professional
- Consider self-exclusion or taking a break from all gambling activities
Taking action today can change your life tomorrow. Help is available, and recovery is real.