Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Entertainment

At marypershall.com, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Pokies and online gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only—never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you find yourself gambling to make money or recover losses, it's time to seek help.

Age Verification

Gaming is strictly for adults aged 18 years and over in Australia. We are committed to preventing underage gambling. By accessing our site and participating in gaming activities, you confirm that you are of legal age in your jurisdiction.

Parents and guardians: if you're concerned about a young person's gaming habits, please seek support from relevant authorities or counseling services.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

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

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
• Hiding or lying about gambling activities and expenses
• Neglecting work, school, family, or other responsibilities due to gambling
• Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, food, bills)
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when unable to gamble
• Increasing the amount or frequency of gambling to achieve the same excitement
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Borrowing money to fund gambling activities
• Relationship problems caused by gambling
• Jeopardising education, career, or personal opportunities

If you've ticked any of these boxes, professional support is available and can make a real difference.

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Many online gaming platforms offer built-in tools to help you maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Cap the total losses you're prepared to accept
• Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
• Session Time Limits: Set automatic logouts after a certain period
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
• Account Closure: Request permanent closure of your gaming accounts

Use these tools proactively—they're designed with your wellbeing in mind.

Support Organisations & Resources

If you or someone you care about needs help, these organisations offer free, confidential support:

Australia

• Gambling Help Online – Free counselling and support for problem gambling
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call)

United Kingdom

• GamCare – Free support for problem gambling
  www.gamcare.org.uk
• GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme
  www.gamstop.co.uk

Canada

• Responsible Gambling Council – Evidence-based resources and support
  www.responsiblegambling.org

United States

• National Council on Problem Gambling – Information and referrals
  www.ncpgambling.org
  National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700

Germany

• Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Federal Centre for Health Education
  Gambling addiction support and information

If You Need Help

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. Whether you're experiencing difficulties yourself or concerned about someone else, reach out to one of the organisations above today.

Remember: you're not alone, and recovery is possible.

If you're in crisis, contact emergency services or a local crisis helpline immediately.