Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not Financial
At Surfers Wax Hands, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed as entertainment only—never as a way to make money or solve financial problems. If you find yourself gambling to earn income or recover losses, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
Online pokies in Australia are strictly for adults aged 18 years and over. We take age verification seriously and comply with all Australian gambling regulations. If you are under 18, please do not use our gaming services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss the risks of gambling with young people.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Do you recognise any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know?
- Chasing losses: Gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding gambling: Keeping your gaming activity secret from friends and family
- Loss of control: Unable to stop or reduce your gaming despite wanting to
- Neglecting responsibilities: Skipping work, school, or family obligations to gamble
- Gambling with money you can't afford to lose: Using rent, bills, or essential funds
- Borrowing to gamble: Taking loans or using credit to fund gaming
- Mood changes: Becoming irritable or anxious when unable to gamble
- Escalating stakes: Needing to bet more to achieve the same excitement
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce gambling
- Using gambling to escape: Gaming to cope with stress, depression, or anxiety
If you've experienced three or more of these warning signs in the past year, professional help is available.
Self-Help Tools & Player Protection
Most reputable online gaming sites offer built-in tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a day, week, or month
- Loss Limits: Cap the maximum losses you're willing to accept in a set timeframe
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications reminding you how long you've been playing
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Periods: Take a break from gaming for a set period (hours or days)
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily ban yourself from an operator's platform, typically for 6 months to several years
Use these tools proactively. They're designed to support your wellbeing and help you maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support & Help Services in Australia
If you're struggling with gambling, professional support is available and confidential. The following organisations provide free, evidence-based help:
Australia
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Gambling Help Online
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free, confidential)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Available 24/7 with counselling, self-help tools, and support for family members. -
Gambler's Help (Victoria)
Phone: 1800 858 858
Specialised counselling services across Victoria. -
Australasian National Council on Gambling
Resources and referrals to local support services.
International Support (if applicable)
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GamCare (UK)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk -
GamStop (UK National Self-Exclusion Scheme)
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk -
Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org -
National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Talking to someone is the first step toward recovery. Help is always available.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a treatable condition. You're not alone, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with gambling, please contact:
Gambling Help Online: 1800 858 858
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Counsellors are available 24/7, and all calls are free and confidential.
Our Commitment
Surfers Wax Hands is committed to promoting responsible gaming and complying with all Australian gambling regulations. We encourage all players to set limits, play within their means, and seek help if gambling becomes a problem. Gambling should always be fun—never a financial solution.