Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At bad-umpires.com, we believe that online pokies and casino gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it responsibly and within your means.
Always gamble within your budget, set limits before you play, and never chase losses. Remember: the house always has an edge, and losing is always a possibility.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be at least 18 years old to access and use online gaming services. We are committed to preventing underage gambling and comply with all Australian gaming regulations.
By using our website and accessing linked gaming operators, you confirm that you are of legal age and are not prohibited from gambling under Australian law or your local jurisdiction.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available:
- Chasing losses: Continuing to play to try to recover money you've lost
- Increasing amounts: Needing to wager more money to achieve the same level of excitement
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to control, cut back, or stop gaming
- Hiding gambling activity: Being secretive about how much time or money you spend on gaming
- Gambling to escape: Using gaming as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, or other problems
- Financial strain: Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gaming
- Neglecting responsibilities: Prioritizing gaming over work, family, relationships, or other obligations
- Withdrawal symptoms: Feeling restless or irritable when not gambling
- Relationship conflicts: Gaming causing arguments or tension with family and friends
- Loss of control: Gambling longer or with larger amounts than intended
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most reputable online gaming operators provide responsible gaming tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the amount of money you're prepared to lose in a session or over time
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during play about how long you've been gaming and how much you've spent
- Session Limits: Set automatic time-outs to prevent extended gaming sessions
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing gaming sites
- Account Closure: Request that your account be closed or suspended
We encourage you to use these tools proactively and contact your gaming operator if you need assistance setting them up.
Support & Counselling Services
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Here are key support organizations:
Australia (Primary)
- Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential counselling and support for all Australians
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call)
Other Regions (for international users)
- GamCare (UK) – Support and treatment for problem gamblers
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion register
www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) – Resources and support
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (USA) – Helpline and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
All services listed above are confidential and free. Speaking to a counselor does not mean you've done anything wrong—it's a positive step toward taking control.
If You're Struggling, Seek Help Now
Problem gambling can affect your mental health, finances, relationships, and overall wellbeing. If you're concerned about your gaming habits—or those of someone you care about—please reach out to one of the support organizations listed above.
Help is available, and recovery is possible. Don't wait until things get worse. Contact a counselor today—it's confidential and completely free.
Remember: Gaming should be fun. If it stops being fun, it's time to get help.