Responsible Gambling Guidelines

Responsible Gambling Guidelines   

People's Choice Community Foundation Limited ACN 154 717 987 (we, us, our) supports not-for-profits, schools, community and volunteer groups and other charitable organisations (participating groups) to fundraise for the benefit of local communities via the People First Community Lottery (Community Lottery). We are a subsidiary of Heritage and People's Choice Ltd ACN 087 651 125 trading as People First Bank (People First Bank). We are not an authorised deposit-taking institution and our obligations do not constitute deposits or liabilities of, and are not guaranteed by, Heritage and People's Choice Ltd.

People First Bank facilitates the running of the Community Lottery, including all administration, advertising, prizes and tickets.  All ticket proceeds are returned to the participating groups following the final draw.

We strive to promote a safe, enjoyable, and responsible experience for all participants, and while the Community Lottery is rarely associated with problem gambling, these Responsible Gambling Guidelines (Guidelines) describe how we promote responsible practices and aim to minimise gambling harm.

 

1.        Introduction

We are committed to promoting responsible gambling practices and ensuring that operations and marketing of the Community Lottery are conducted in a way that minimises harm to individuals and the community.

The purpose of these Guidelines is to ensure that the Community Lottery operates with high standards of social responsibility, in line with the values of transparency, and support for community well-being.

2.        Objectives

The objectives of these Responsible Gambling Guidelines are to:

·           Minimise the risk of gambling harm by ensuring the Community Lottery is operated and marketed in a socially responsible manner.

·           Ensure that all individuals who participate in the lottery are of legal age and able to make informed financial decisions.

·           Provide information on how to access support services for those who may need assistance.

 

3.        Chances of winning

The chances of winning a prize will depend on the total number of tickets sold, and there is no guarantee that you will win when purchasing a ticket(s).

The details on the chance of winning a prize are publicly available in the Community Lottery’s FAQs, Terms and Conditions, and on each ticket sold.

4.        Protecting minors and other vulnerable individuals

To participate in the lottery, individuals must be aged 18 years or older at time of entry. We strictly prohibit minors from purchasing lottery tickets and from claiming prizes, as we are committed to protecting young people from gambling-related harm.

Participants who believe they may have a problem with gambling are encouraged to refrain from purchasing tickets. We promote self-awareness and responsible play to ensure a positive experience, and we share a range of support services for individuals who may need assistance

If you wish to exclude yourself from participating in the Community Lottery or from receiving our promotions or communications for the Community Lottery, please contact us on 13 11 82, or email us at info@communitylottery.com.au.

 

5.        Responsible Promotion

We will not engage in misleading or deceptive advertising practices and will ensure that our promotional content does not encourage excessive or irresponsible gambling behaviour.

When promoting the Community Lottery we will encourage responsible gambling, and will ensure that all promotional materials for the Community Lottery:

·           are not directed at, or likely to appeal primarily to minors, or suggest that minors are eligible to purchase tickets; and

·           do not misrepresent the probability of winning a prize or suggest that winning is a definite outcome.

6.        Responsible Gambling

Responsible gambling means staying in control of how much time and money an individual spends on gambling. Whilst the majority of individuals gamble within their means, for some, gambling can become a problem.  We encourage participants to remember the following:

·           Gambling should be an entertaining and positive experience, and not seen as a way to obtain financial gain.

·           Play within your means, and only spend money and time that you can reasonably afford.

·           Keep track of time and amount spent on gambling.

 

7.        Compliance

We will comply with all applicable laws, regulations, directions, and codes of practice or conduct in relation to responsible gambling when we are operating and promoting the Community Lottery.

 

8.        Support for Problem Gambling

We understand that gambling can have negative consequences for some individuals. If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulties related to gambling, please contact one of the following helplines for support:

·           Gambling Helpline Australia: 1800 858 858 (Confidential 24/7 support)

·           Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au (Confidential online support)

·           Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)

·           Local support services in your state or territory

These resources offer confidential, professional advice and support to individuals dealing with gambling issues, as well as their families and friends.

Below are some useful tools from Gambling Help Online:

·         You can take the Gambling Self-Assessment Quiz to make informed decisions about your gambling choices or to seek help.

·         You can use the Gambling Calculator to see how much you are spending on gambling activities.

 

9.        Monitoring, Reporting and Complaints

We acknowledge the potential risks associated with gambling and will continue to implement strategies aimed at reducing harm and provide resources to support individuals who need help.

We will regularly review our lottery operations to ensure compliance with these Guidelines and relevant legislation.

Any concerns or feedback from participants regarding responsible gambling will be taken seriously and addressed promptly.  If you have any questions, concerns or complaints about these Guidelines, please contact us on 13 11 82, or email us at info@communitylottery.com.au. We will respect your privacy in any communications you have with us.

 

10.    Summary

We are committed to ensuring that the Community Lottery operates responsibly and contributes positively to the community.  By adhering to these Guidelines, we aim to create a safe and responsible environment and positive experience for participants, that benefits our wider community.