Boardwalk Casino Responsible Gaming
1. Legal Framework and Regulatory Compliance
Boardwalk Casino forms part of Sun International’s licensed casino portfolio in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The casino participates in the National Responsible Gambling Programme and operates in accordance with the National Gambling Act 7 of 2004, applicable provincial licensing requirements, and oversight by the National Gambling Board.
The casino holds a valid provincial casino licence and conducts only those gambling activities authorised under sections 7 to 11 of the National Gambling Act. All gambling activities occur on licensed premises and are subject to national norms and standards enforced by the National Gambling Board and the relevant Provincial Licensing Authority.
Gambling at Boardwalk Casino is restricted to persons aged 18 years and older. It is illegal for any person under 18 years of age to gamble in South Africa. Age verification is enforced at entry points, and identification may be requested at any time.
2. National Responsible Gambling Programme Partnership
Boardwalk Casino supports the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP), a public-private partnership between regulators, the gambling industry, and the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation (SARGF). The NRGP integrates education, research, and treatment within a single national framework that has operated since 1999.
The South African Responsible Gambling Foundation provides free and confidential counselling and treatment to persons affected by problem gambling. The SARGF operates independently of gambling operators and is funded by the gambling industry in order to maintain impartial support.
3. Access to Free Counselling and Treatment
All customers and members of the public may access SARGF support services at no cost through the following channels:
- National toll-free helpline (24/7): 0800 006 008
- WhatsApp/SMS support: send HELP to 076 675 0710
- Email: [email protected]
- International callers: +27 21 674 5830
SARGF counsellors provide professional telephone counselling and referrals to a country-wide network of treatment professionals. All services are confidential. From the inception of the NRGP to February 2011, the toll-free helpline received more than 308 000 calls, with 12 810 callers referred for free treatment and 107 individuals receiving inpatient care.
4. Self-Exclusion Procedure
Self-exclusion is a formal process through which a customer requests to be barred from gambling at Boardwalk Casino. Self-exclusion applications are processed in line with guidelines issued by the National Gambling Board.
4.1. Application Process
To apply for self-exclusion, a customer must submit a written request to the casino’s security or administration department. The request must contain full personal details and identification information.
Following receipt of a valid request, the application is processed and the exclusion record is submitted to the Provincial Licensing Authority and the National Gambling Board for official record-keeping.
4.2. Duration and Conditions
A self-excluded person may not participate in any gambling activity at Boardwalk Casino for a minimum period of six months. During this period, the individual is required to attend counselling sessions with a SARGF treatment professional.
Upliftment of a self-exclusion order is considered only after the six-month minimum period has elapsed and upon submission of proof of attendance at counselling sessions with a SARGF-accredited treatment professional.
4.3. Enforcement
Self-excluded persons are not permitted to enter gaming areas or take part in any gambling activity. Internal records are maintained and are used in cooperation with the Provincial Licensing Authority and the National Gambling Board to enforce exclusion orders.
Any attempt by a self-excluded person to gamble at Boardwalk Casino may result in removal from the premises and forfeiture of winnings.
5. On-Property Responsible Gambling Measures
Boardwalk Casino displays responsible gambling information on-site, including contact details for the SARGF helpline and educational materials on indicators of problem gambling. Staff receive training to identify potential signs of problem gambling and to direct customers to appropriate support resources.
Credit is not extended for gambling purposes. All gaming transactions are conducted in cash or via approved electronic payment methods in line with licensing conditions.
6. Distinction Between Legal and Illegal Gambling
Boardwalk Casino operates solely as a licensed land-based casino. Many forms of online gambling, including online casinos, online poker, and unlicensed sports betting, are illegal in South Africa under the National Gambling Act. Participation in or offering illegal gambling can result in prosecution, with penalties of up to R10 million in fines or a minimum of 10 years in prison.
Customers should note that offshore or unlicensed operators that claim to offer “Boardwalk Casino” or similar services online are not affiliated with the licensed premises and operate illegally. Boardwalk Casino does not offer online gambling services.
7. Customer Responsibilities
Customers are responsible for managing their own gambling behaviour and for seeking assistance if they experience difficulties related to gambling. Early indicators of problem gambling may include:
- Spending more time or money on gambling than intended
- Gambling to escape personal, financial, or emotional problems
- Borrowing money to gamble or to cover gambling losses
- Neglecting personal, family, or professional responsibilities due to gambling
Customers are encouraged to set personal limits on the time and money spent on gambling and to take regular breaks. Customers who recognise warning signs in themselves or others should contact the SARGF helpline without delay.
8. Contact and Further Information
For responsible gambling support, contact the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation directly using the channels listed in section 3 of this document.
For queries relating to self-exclusion or this responsible gaming policy, contact Boardwalk Casino security or administration during operating hours.
Further information on South Africa’s National Responsible Gambling Programme is available at: