Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income

At Staging Spaces Melbourne, we're committed to promoting responsible gambling practices. Betting and casino games should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only—never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The odds in all games are designed to favour the house, and there is no guaranteed way to win.

If you choose to gamble, please do so with money you can afford to lose, and set limits before you start playing.

Age Verification

Online gambling in Australia is only available to individuals who are 18 years of age or older. If you are under the legal age in your jurisdiction, please do not attempt to access betting services.

It is your responsibility to ensure you meet all legal requirements to participate in gambling activities where you reside. Operators are required to verify your age and identity before accepting your registration.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Do you recognise any of the following warning signs in yourself or someone you know?

• Chasing losses: Gambling more money to try to recover money you've lost
• Hiding gambling activity: Keeping your gambling secret from family or friends
• Loss of control: Being unable to stick to spending limits or time limits
• Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or neglecting family duties due to gambling
• Borrowing to gamble: Using credit cards, loans, or borrowed money to fund betting
• Mood changes: Becoming irritable, anxious, or defensive when questioned about gambling
• Escalating stakes: Needing to bet more money to get the same excitement
• Failed attempts to cut down: Repeatedly trying and failing to reduce gambling activity
• Financial problems: Experiencing unexplained debt, unpaid bills, or financial hardship
• Using gambling to escape: Gambling to relieve stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotional problems

If you've ticked more than one of these boxes, it may be time to seek help or implement self-help tools immediately.

Self-Help Tools & Safer Gambling Features

Most reputable Australian betting operators offer the following tools to help you gamble responsibly:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you're willing to deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose before you stop gambling
• Reality Checks: Receive pop-up reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from accessing betting sites for a set period (typically 6 months to several years)
• Account Closure: Permanently close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
• Take a Break: Pause your account temporarily without losing access to funds

We encourage you to actively use these tools when creating your account and to review your limits regularly. Remember: setting limits before you play is far more effective than trying to control your behaviour after you've started.

Support Organizations & Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out to one of these trusted organisations:

Australia

Gambling Help Online
Free, confidential support for people affected by problem gambling in Australia. Offers counselling, self-help information, and resources in multiple languages.

National Gambling Helpline (Australia): 1800 858 858 (24/7, free call from landline or mobile)

United Kingdom

GamCare
Free, confidential support for problem gamblers and their families across the UK.

GamStop
A national self-exclusion scheme allowing UK residents to self-exclude from all licensed online gambling operators.

Canada

Responsible Gambling Council
Evidence-based resources and support for problem gambling prevention and treatment in Canada.

United States

National Council on Problem Gambling
Confidential helpline and resources for problem gambling treatment and prevention in the USA.

Germany

Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
Federal Centre for Health Education providing information on gambling addiction and support resources.

If You Need Help, Reach Out Today

Gambling addiction is a recognised health condition, and help is available. There is no shame in seeking support. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you can regain control of your life.

If you're in Australia and struggling with gambling, contact Gambling Help Online at www.gamblinghelponline.org.au or call the National Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858 (available 24/7).

Remember: your wellbeing is more important than any bet. Speak to a counsellor, family member, or trusted friend today.