Responsible Gaming
Introduction
At Constellation Apartments, we believe that gaming should be fun, exciting entertainment—never a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Playing pokies should only be done with money you can afford to lose, as part of leisure activities. If you find yourself gambling to make money, chase losses, or use gambling as an escape, it's time to seek support.
Age Verification
You must be 18 years of age or older to access pokies and gambling content in Australia. By using our affiliate information and visiting linked venues, you confirm that you meet the legal age requirement in your jurisdiction. We do not permit access to gambling services for anyone under the legal age.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognise any of the following signs in your own behaviour, please reach out for help:
- ☑ Gambling with money you cannot afford to lose
- ☑ Chasing losses by gambling more to win back money
- ☑ Hiding or lying about the amount of time or money spent gambling
- ☑ Feeling anxious, guilty, or stressed about gambling
- ☑ Neglecting family, work, school, or other responsibilities due to gambling
- ☑ Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
- ☑ Needing to gamble with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement
- ☑ Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop gambling
- ☑ Using gambling to escape problems or relieve negative emotions
- ☑ Experiencing relationship conflicts because of gambling
Self-Help Tools
Most reputable pokies venues and online platforms offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Establish a limit on how much you're willing to lose in a session
- Reality Checks: Enable reminders during your gaming sessions to check how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Exclude yourself from pokies venues or platforms for a set period if you feel you need a break
- Session Timers: Use time limits to control your gambling duration
Take advantage of these tools—they're designed to support responsible gaming and give you control.
Support Organizations in Australia
If you or someone you know needs help with problem gambling, these Australian organisations provide free, confidential support:
Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free counselling service available 24/7 via phone, webchat, and email. Tailored information and support for all Australians.
Lifeline Australia
Phone: 13 11 14 (24 hours)
Crisis support and counselling for people in emotional distress, including those affected by problem gambling.
Beyond Blue
Phone: 1300 22 4636 (24 hours)
Website: www.beyondblue.org.au
Mental health and wellbeing support, with resources for gambling-related concerns.
Gamblers Anonymous Australia
Free peer support meetings across Australia for people struggling with gambling addiction. Visit local meeting directories online.
International Support Resources
If you're accessing information from outside Australia, these organisations provide support in their respective regions:
- United Kingdom: GamCare (www.gamcare.org.uk) and GamStop (www.gamstop.co.uk)
- Canada: Responsible Gambling Council (www.responsiblegambling.org)
- United States: National Council on Problem Gambling (www.ncpgambling.org)
- Germany: Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) and local addiction support services
Call to Action
If you're struggling with gambling or suspect you may have a problem, please seek help today. Problem gambling is treatable, and support is available. You don't have to face this alone.
Contact Gambling Help Online on 1300 668 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au for confidential assistance 24/7.
Remember: Gambling should be entertaining, not stressful. Set limits, know when to stop, and reach out for support if you need it.