Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Melbourne Musical Theatre Festival, we believe that gambling should only ever be a form of entertainment, not a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Betting should be enjoyable and fun, undertaken with money you can afford to lose. If gambling stops being fun, it's time to seek help.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal age in your jurisdiction) to participate in gambling activities. We are committed to preventing underage gambling. If you are under the legal age, please do not attempt to access betting services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Please be aware of these warning signs, which may indicate problem gambling:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money lost
- Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the amount spent
- Neglecting work, school, family, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Experiencing mood swings related to gambling wins or losses
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to reduce gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or relieve stress
- Losing relationships or opportunities due to gambling
Self-Help Tools
Many betting platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe
- Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you can lose in a given period
- Reality Checks: Receive regular reminders about how long you've been gambling
- Time-Out: Temporarily suspend your account to take a break from gambling
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily ban yourself from accessing betting services
We encourage you to use these tools proactively as part of responsible gambling practices.
Support Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organizations provide free, confidential support:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free counselling and support services for all Australians
United Kingdom
- GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk — Free support and information for problem gambling
- GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
Other Regions
- Canada - Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org
- United States - National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org
- Germany - Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung: Information and support on gambling addiction (contact your local health authority)
Need Help?
If you believe you have a problem with gambling, or if someone close to you does, please reach out for support today. There is no shame in seeking help, and recovery is possible with proper support. Contact one of the organizations listed above — they offer free, confidential assistance.
Remember: Gambling should be fun. If it's not, help is just a call or click away.