Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At stephenbourke.com, we're committed to promoting responsible gambling practices. NRL betting should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only—never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. If you find yourself betting more than you can afford to lose, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
All users must be at least 18 years of age or the legal gambling age in their Australian state or territory to use betting services. It is illegal for anyone under the legal age to gamble. If you are underage, please do not attempt to place bets.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by betting more money to recover what you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Neglecting work, study, family, or other important responsibilities
- Borrowing money to fund your gambling
- Unable to cut back or stop gambling despite wanting to
- Lying about the extent of your gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable betting operators offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you're willing to lose during a session or time period
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders of how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from betting platforms if you need a break
- Time-Outs: Take a mandatory break from gambling for a set period
Contact your betting operator's customer support to activate these features on your account.
Support Organisations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free, confidential support, counselling, and resources for people affected by problem gambling
- Lifeline Australia: www.lifeline.org.au — Call 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support
- Beyond Blue: www.beyondblue.org.au — Mental health support including gambling-related concerns
International Support
- GamCare (UK): www.gamcare.org.uk
- GamStop (UK): www.gamstop.co.uk
- Responsible Gambling Council (Canada): www.responsiblegambling.org
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA): www.ncpgambling.org
If You Need Help
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you're experiencing problems with gambling, please reach out to one of the support organisations listed above. Many services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
Remember: you don't have to face this alone. Help is available, and recovery is possible.