Responsible Gaming
Introduction: Gaming for Entertainment
At Community of Calm, we believe that online pokies and casino games should be enjoyed purely as entertainment. Gambling should never be viewed as a way to earn money, pay bills, or solve financial problems. It's important to approach gaming with a clear understanding that the house always has a mathematical advantage, and the outcome of every game is determined by chance.
Please gamble responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in gambling activities, including online pokies. It is illegal for minors to gamble. If you are under 18, please do not use any gambling services.
We are committed to preventing underage gambling and take age verification seriously.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Please review the following warning signs. If you recognise any of these behaviours in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately:
- Chasing losses: Trying to recover lost money by gambling more
- Hiding gambling activity: Concealing the extent of your gambling from family or friends
- Loss of control: Being unable to stop or limit your gambling despite wanting to
- Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family commitments due to gambling
- Spending more than intended: Regularly spending more money than planned
- Gambling to escape problems: Using gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression
- Increasing bet sizes: Needing to gamble with larger amounts to get the same excitement
- Borrowing money to gamble: Taking loans or using credit to fund gambling activities
- Relationship strain: Arguments with loved ones about your gambling habits
- Financial difficulties: Experiencing money problems as a result of gambling
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most responsible gambling platforms offer tools to help you maintain control. Consider using these features:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on how much you're willing to lose in a session or over a period of time
- Betting Limits: Restrict the maximum bet amount per spin or game
- Reality Checks: Enable pop-up reminders during gaming sessions to check how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a set period (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Permanently or temporarily exclude yourself from gambling services across multiple operators
These tools are designed to help you stay in control. Use them proactively.
Support Organizations in Australia & Beyond
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential counselling and support
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (free call)
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free support for problem gambling
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council
www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling
www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (free, confidential)
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Federal Centre for Health Education
Gambling addiction information and support resources available
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
There is no shame in asking for help. Problem gambling is a treatable condition, and support is available 24/7. Whether you're experiencing gambling urges, financial stress, or relationship problems related to gambling, professional counsellors are ready to help.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 (Australia) or visit the support organisations listed above.
Remember: You are not alone, and recovery is possible.
Our Commitment
Community of Calm is committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. We encourage all players to gamble within their means, set personal limits, and seek help if gambling becomes a problem. Your wellbeing is our priority.