Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At Little Hideout Cafe, we believe that pokies and online gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Gaming is never a way to earn money or solve financial problems. It's important to gamble within your means and always remember that the house has an edge. Only spend what you can afford to lose, and never view gaming as an investment or income source.

Age Verification

Gaming services are strictly for players aged 18 years and over in Australia. By accessing our content, you confirm that you are of legal age in your jurisdiction. We are committed to preventing underage gambling and protecting young people.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or other essentials
• Hiding your gambling activity from friends, family, or loved ones
• Gambling for longer periods than intended
• Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
• Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to gambling
• Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
• Lying about the amount of time or money spent gaming
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone else, seek help immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Many gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe
• Loss Limits: Restrict the amount you're prepared to lose in a session or period
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic reminders or cut-offs for gaming sessions
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications about your time and money spent
• Self-Exclusion: Take a break from gaming by temporarily or permanently excluding yourself from platforms

Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.

Support Organisations & Resources

If you need help, Australia has excellent support services available:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online — Free, confidential support and counselling
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
• Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 (mental health support)

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

All of these organisations provide free, confidential support. There's no shame in seeking help — recovery is possible.

If You Need Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, please reach out for support today. The organisations listed above offer free counselling, advice, and practical tools to help you regain control.

Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You don't have to face this alone.