Responsible Gaming
At Maher Knives, we are committed to promoting safe and responsible gambling practices. This page provides important information and resources for Australian players.
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, similar to going to the cinema or playing sport. It should never be considered a way to make money or solve financial problems. The odds are always in favour of the house, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Set a budget for gambling activities and treat any losses as the cost of entertainment, just like any other hobby.
Age Verification
Online gambling in Australia is only available to individuals who are 18 years of age or older. All players must verify their age before accessing betting sites. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to gamble online.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss responsible gambling with young people and to use parental controls where available.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- Gambling with money intended for essentials (rent, bills, food, medication)
- Neglecting work, school, family, or relationships due to gambling
- Experiencing mood changes or irritability when unable to gamble
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
- Feeling anxious or stressed when not gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or gambling with borrowed funds
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
If you recognise any of these signs in your own behaviour, it may be time to seek help.
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable online betting sites offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount of money you are willing to lose during a gambling session
- Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic time-outs to limit how long you spend gambling
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic pop-up reminders about your spending and time spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing betting sites
- Account Closure: Close your account if you decide to stop gambling
We encourage you to use these tools as part of your responsible gambling strategy.
Support Organizations and Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help and support are available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Provides free, confidential support and counselling services for people affected by problem gambling in Australia
- National Gambling Helpline: 1800 858 858 — Free call service available 24/7
- Gamblers Anonymous: Support groups and meetings across Australia
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom): www.gamcare.org.uk — Confidential support and advice
- GamStop (United Kingdom): www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org — Evidence-based information and resources
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States): www.ncpgambling.org — Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Take Action Today
If you believe you have a gambling problem, or if gambling is negatively affecting your life, relationships, or finances, please reach out for help. There is no shame in seeking support — problem gambling is a recognised condition, and professional assistance is available.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au today.
Remember: You are not alone, and help is available.