Responsible Gaming

Gambling Should Be Entertainment

At Cups on Melbourne, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. It's important to remember that gambling should only ever be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Pokies and online gaming should be enjoyed responsibly, within your means, and only with money you can afford to lose.

If you choose to gamble, do so for fun—never as an investment or income source.

Age Verification

Gambling in Australia is restricted to individuals aged 18 years and over. If you are under 18, you must not access or use any pokies or gambling services on this website or elsewhere.

By accessing Cups on Melbourne, you confirm that you are 18 years of age or older and meet all legal requirements to gamble in your jurisdiction.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
• Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or essential expenses
• Hiding gambling activities or lying to friends and family about gambling
• Spending more time and money gambling than intended
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when unable to gamble
• Gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
• Borrowing money to fund gambling
• Neglecting work, study, or relationships due to gambling
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or control gambling
• Using gambling to recoup financial losses

If you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, it's time to seek help.

Self-Help Tools & Safer Gaming Features

Most responsible gaming operators offer tools to help you manage your gambling:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to spend in a given timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Cap the maximum losses you're willing to sustain
• Reality Checks: Receive regular notifications reminding you how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
• Time-Out: Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours, days, or weeks)
• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from accessing gambling services for an extended period

Use these tools proactively to maintain control and keep your gambling within safe limits.

Support Organisations & Resources

If you're struggling with gambling, professional help is available. The following organisations provide free, confidential support:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online – Free counselling and support for problem gambling
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Gamblers Anonymous – Support groups across Australia
  www.gamblersanonymous.org.au

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free, confidential support and counselling
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme
  www.gamstop.co.uk

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council – Resources and support
  www.responsiblegambling.org

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling – Helpline and resources
  www.ncpgambling.org

Germany

• Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Prevention and counselling
  www.bzga.de

Take Action Now

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please reach out for help today. There is no shame in seeking support, and professional assistance is available 24/7.

Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 (free, confidential, Australian service) or visit their website for online counselling and support.

Remember: gambling should always be fun. If it's no longer fun, it's time to get help.