Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At hughies.com.au, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose, and always set strict limits before you play.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to gamble in Australia. By accessing payid pokies through hughies.com.au, you confirm that you are of legal gambling age in your state or territory. We take age verification seriously and reserve the right to request proof of age at any time.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover lost money
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about time spent gambling
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses like rent, food, or bills
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to gamble
- Constantly thinking about gambling or planning the next gambling session
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Using gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or other emotional problems
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop gambling
Self-Help Tools & Limit-Setting
Most responsible online gambling platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to spend per day, week, or month
- Loss Limits: Stop gambling once you reach a predetermined loss threshold
- Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications during gaming sessions to remind you how long you've been playing
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling platforms
- Take a Break: Use cooling-off periods to step away from gambling
Use these tools proactively to maintain control of your gambling habits.
Get Help — Support Organizations
If you're struggling with gambling, professional support is available. Here are resources appropriate for Australian players:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: Free, confidential counselling and support for problem gambling
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
International Resources
- GamCare (UK): Free support and information on problem gambling
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (UK): Self-exclusion service for online gambling
www.gamstop.co.uk - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): Evidence-based resources for problem gambling
www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): Helpline and support services
www.ncpgambling.org
All these services offer confidential, non-judgmental support. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If You Need Help
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, please seek help today. There is no shame in asking for support, and professional resources are available to assist you in regaining control.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 (free call from anywhere in Australia) or visit their website for webchat and counselling services.
Remember: Gambling should be fun. When it stops being fun, it's time to stop and seek support.