Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At The Courthouse Pinjarra, we believe that gaming should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. Pokies and online gaming are games of chance and should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Please gamble responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to access and use gaming services in Australia. We are committed to preventing underage gambling. If you are under 18, please do not use our services. Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss responsible gaming practices with young people.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in yourself or someone you know, help is available:
- Chasing losses by gambling with more money to recover what you've lost
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount spent
- Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, bills, food)
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Neglecting family, work, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts
- Loss of control over gambling behaviour
- Failed attempts to reduce or stop gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Jeopardising relationships, education, or career opportunities
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most gaming platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period
- Loss Limits: Set a limit on how much you're willing to lose
- Time Limits: Set reminders to take breaks during gaming sessions
- Reality Checks: Enable regular pop-up notifications showing time spent and money wagered
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily ban yourself from accessing gaming services for a set period
- Account Closure: Permanently close your account if needed
We encourage you to use these tools if you feel your gambling may be getting out of control.
Support & Helpline Services
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Please reach out to one of these organisations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online — www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free counselling and support for problem gamblers and their families
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1800 858 858 (24/7, free and confidential)
United Kingdom
- GamCare — www.gamcare.org.uk — Free support and counselling
- GamStop — www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council — www.responsiblegambling.org — Resources and support
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling — www.ncpgambling.org — Information and referral services
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) — Information and counselling on gambling addiction
If You Need Help
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, please don't hesitate to contact one of the support organisations listed above. Help is available, confidential, and free.
Remember: Your wellbeing is more important than any game. Reach out today.