Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At The Balanced Lunchbox, we believe that online gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Pokies and online gaming should never be viewed as a source of income.
Please gamble responsibly and within your means. Only spend money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Online pokies in Australia are strictly for players aged 18 years and over. By accessing this website and playing, you confirm that you are of legal age in your jurisdiction.
We do not permit gambling by minors. If you are under 18, please do not use our services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognise these warning signs in yourself or others:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Gambling with money intended for essentials (rent, bills, food)
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the time and money spent
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Increasing the amount wagered to achieve the same excitement
- Neglecting work, family, or social responsibilities
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
- Loss of control over gambling behaviour
If you recognise any of these signs, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Features
Most licensed operators in Australia provide tools to help you gamble responsibly:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time Limits: Set session duration limits to control how long you play
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from playing
- Account Closure: Close your account if you wish to stop gambling entirely
Use these tools proactively to maintain control over your gaming.
Support Organisations & Helplines
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential support and counselling
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call) - Gamblers Anonymous Australia – Support groups and peer assistance
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.au
Other Countries
- United Kingdom: GamCare – www.gamcare.org.uk | GamStop – www.gamstop.co.uk
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council – www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling – www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Don't suffer in silence. Problem gambling is a recognised condition, and recovery is possible with support.
If you or a loved one is experiencing gambling-related problems:
- Contact Gambling Help Online at 1800 858 858 (Australia)
- Visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Speak with a counsellor, doctor, or trusted person
- Use self-exclusion tools available through your gaming provider
Help is available 24/7, confidential, and free of charge.