Responsible Gambling Resources

Responsible gambling means:

• Playing within your means and treating it as entertainment, not income.
• Setting clear limits on time and money before you start.
• Understanding the odds and house edge.
• Recognising warning signs of problem gambling early.
• Knowing where to seek help if gambling becomes harmful.

Autumn Moon's high volatility and linked jackpots can create long dry spells followed by large wins. This pattern can feel compelling, but it's important to remember that each spin is random and independent. No betting system or timing strategy can overcome the house edge.

Before you play, decide:

1. Session budget - The total amount you're willing to lose in one sitting (e.g. $50 AUD). Once you reach this limit, stop.
2. Bet size - Choose a denomination and bet per line that allows your budget to last a reasonable session (e.g. 30+ spins). Avoid jumping to higher bets to "chase" features.
3. Win target - If you reach a profit goal (e.g. double your starting amount), consider cashing out at least part of it rather than re-betting everything.
4. Time limit - Set a clock. Play for a fixed period (e.g. 1 hour) and stop when time is up, regardless of whether you're ahead or behind.

[!TIP] Many Australian venues now offer pre-commitment tools on electronic gaming machines. Ask staff at your local club or pub whether you can set a maximum bet or session time limit on the machine itself.

If you feel you need a break from gambling, Australian venues and online operators offer self-exclusion:

Land-based (pubs, clubs, casinos)

• Contact the venue directly or speak to a manager.
• Request a self-exclusion agreement - you'll be banned from entering for a set period (typically 6 months to 5 years).
• Some venues participate in state-wide self-exclusion schemes (e.g. NSW Clubs Self-Exclusion Register).
• Self-exclusion is free and confidential.

Online casinos

• Most licensed offshore operators (e.g. Skycrown, JustCasino, LuckyDreams) have self-exclusion options in account settings.
• You can also request a global self-exclusion via GamCare (UK-based, recognised internationally) or contact the operator's support team directly.

[!NOTE] Self-exclusion is a serious commitment. Once activated, you cannot access your account or withdraw funds during the exclusion period (though you may be able to request early termination in some cases). Check your venue or operator's specific policy.

Gambling Help Online (National)

• Phone: 1800 858 858 (free, confidential, 24/7)
• Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• Services: Counselling, information, referrals to local support services.
• Who can call: Gamblers, family members, friends affected by someone's gambling.

Lifeline Australia

• Phone: 13 11 14 (24/7, free)
• Website: www.lifeline.org.au
• Services: Crisis support, counselling, referrals for mental health and gambling concerns.

State-specific services

• NSW: GambleAware NSW - free counselling, financial advice, and support. Contact via Gambling Help Online or local health services.
• Victoria: Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation (VRGF) - information, support, and self-exclusion coordination.
• Queensland: Gambling Help Service QLD - counselling and support.
• Other states/territories: Gambling Help Online can direct you to your local service.

All services are free, confidential, and non-judgmental. You don't need to be in crisis to call; early intervention is encouraged.

Seek help if you:

• Spend more time or money on gambling than intended.
• Feel anxious or irritable when not gambling.
• Chase losses by increasing bets or returning to play sooner than planned.
• Neglect work, study, family, or relationships because of gambling.
• Borrow money or use credit to fund gambling.
• Lie to family or friends about how much you gamble.
• Feel unable to stop, even when you want to.

These signs don't mean you're "weak" or "bad" - problem gambling is a recognised condition, and support is available.

• Treat it as entertainment, not investment. Autumn Moon's RTP is around 95-96%, meaning over time, the house has an edge. Never gamble money you need for essentials.
• Avoid chasing losses. If you've lost your session budget, stop. The next spin won't "make it back."
• Don't use alcohol or drugs while gambling. These impair judgment and increase risk of overspending.
• Play with friends or family nearby. Social accountability can help you stick to limits.
• Take regular breaks. Step away from the machine every 30 minutes to reset.
• Know the odds. Autumn Moon's high volatility means long dry spells are normal. Don't interpret a dry spell as a sign you're "due" for a big win.

Family members and friends of problem gamblers often experience stress, financial hardship, and emotional strain. Support is available for you too:

• Gambling Help Online (1800 858 858) offers counselling for affected family members.
• Lifeline (13 11 14) provides crisis support.
• Gambler's Anonymous - peer support groups in some Australian cities.
• Many state services offer family counselling at no cost.

You are not responsible for someone else's gambling, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not failure.

If you choose to play Autumn Moon or similar pokies at an offshore online casino:

• Check licensing: Verify the operator's jurisdiction and regulatory body (e.g. Malta Gaming Authority, Curacao eGaming). Australian-licensed operators cannot legally offer online pokies to AU residents.
• Use account tools: Set deposit limits, loss limits, and session time limits in your account settings.
• Enable two-factor authentication: Protect your account from unauthorised access.
• Request self-exclusion: If needed, contact support to activate self-exclusion.
• Keep records: Monitor your account statements and betting history to stay aware of your spending.

[!RISK] Online gambling at unlicensed offshore casinos carries financial and security risk. Australia's Interactive Gambling Act restricts licensed operators from offering online pokies to residents. If you use offshore sites, you have limited consumer protection under Australian law. Gambling Help Online (1800 858 858) can advise on your options.

Autumn Moon is a popular, well-designed pokie with exciting features and the potential for large wins. But it's ultimately a game of chance, and the house always has a mathematical edge over time. Play for fun, set limits, and remember that help is always available if you need it.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, reach out today. It's free, confidential, and the first step toward recovery.