Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At The Patch Wollongong, we believe that online gaming and pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Gaming is never a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. It's important to approach gaming with the right mindset: play for fun, within your means, and only with money you can afford to lose.
We're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices and supporting our players' wellbeing.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to access and use gaming services. We take age verification seriously and employ robust checks to ensure all players meet legal requirements.
If you are under 18, you must not use this website or participate in any gaming activities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Spending more time and money on gaming than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Hiding your gaming activities or the amount you're spending from family and friends
- Neglecting work, study, or personal relationships due to gaming
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not gaming
- Borrowing money to fund gaming activities
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gaming
- Using gaming to escape stress, problems, or negative emotions
- Lying about the extent of your gaming involvement
- Jeopardizing important relationships, job, or education opportunities
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Limits
We provide a range of tools to help you maintain control of your gaming:
Deposit Limits
Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly). Once your limit is reached, you cannot deposit further funds.
Loss Limits
Establish a maximum amount you're prepared to lose. When this limit is reached, your account will be temporarily suspended from gaming.
Reality Checks
Enable regular pop-up reminders that show your playing time and money spent. These help you stay aware of your gaming activity.
Self-Exclusion
If you need a break from gaming, use our self-exclusion feature to temporarily suspend your account for a period you choose (typically 24 hours to 6 months). During this time, you won't be able to access your account or place any bets.
To access these tools, visit your account settings or contact our support team.
Support Organisations & Resources
If you're concerned about your gaming or someone else's, help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online — Free counselling and support for Australians affected by problem gambling
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call, 24/7)
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) — Support, information, and counselling
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) — National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada) — Information and resources for problem gambling
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) — Helpline and resources
www.ncpgambling.org
You can also speak to your GP, local counsellor, or mental health professional for additional support.
Take Action Today
If you think you may have a gambling problem, please reach out for help. There is no shame in seeking support—it's a sign of strength.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 or visit their website for confidential counselling and support.
Remember: you are not alone, and help is always available.