Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
At Ferny Creek Tennis Club, we believe that online gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, and always set limits on how much time and money you spend.
Remember: the house always has an edge. Games are designed for entertainment purposes, and outcomes are determined by chance, not skill or strategy.
Age Verification
Online gambling is strictly for persons aged 18 years and over in Australia, or the legal age in your jurisdiction, whichever is higher.
If you are under the legal gambling age, you must not access or use any gambling services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to use filtering software to prevent underage access to gambling websites.
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: Keeping your gambling activities secret from friends or family
- Loss of control: Being unable to stop or limit your gambling
- Neglecting responsibilities: Gambling instead of working, studying, or caring for family
- Financial problems: Borrowing money to gamble or using money for essential expenses
- Mood changes: Using gambling to escape negative emotions or stress
- Escalation: Needing to gamble with larger amounts for the same excitement
- Failed attempts to quit: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce or stop gambling
- Relationship strain: Arguments with loved ones about your gambling habits
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available.
Self-Help Tools & Player Protection Features
Most reputable online casinos offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a chosen timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a session or over time
- Session Time Limits: Receive reminders or automatic logout after a set period of play
- Reality Check Reminders: Get notifications during play to remind you of time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing the platform
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a specified period
Take advantage of these features to keep your gaming experience safe and enjoyable.
Support & Help Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online — Free, confidential counselling and support
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858
United Kingdom
- GamCare — Free information, support and counselling for problem gamblers
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop — National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council — Resources and support for problem gambling
www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling — Help line and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) — German Centre for Health Education
Telefonberatung: 0800 1 372 374
All services are confidential and free of charge.
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but it is treatable. If you are concerned about your gambling or that of a loved one, please don't hesitate to contact one of the support organisations listed above. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Your wellbeing is important to us. Play responsibly.