Responsible Gaming

Gaming Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Solution

At Contemporary Gymnastics Academy's Payid Pokies information hub, we believe that online gaming should be enjoyed purely as entertainment. Pokies and casino games are games of chance designed for enjoyment only — they should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The odds always favour the house, and losses are an expected part of gaming.

If you choose to play, please do so responsibly and within your means.

Age Verification

You must be 18 years of age or older to access pokies and online gaming services in Australia. By using any gaming platform, you confirm that you meet this legal requirement. Underage gambling is illegal and harmful. If you are under 18, please do not attempt to register or play.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling can develop quickly. Review this checklist — if you recognise any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, seek help immediately:

• Chasing losses by gambling more to recover lost money
• Gambling with money needed for essentials (rent, food, bills)
• Hiding gambling activity or lying about the amount spent
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or guilty about gambling
• Gambling longer or with larger amounts than intended
• Neglecting family, work, study, or social commitments
• Borrowing money to fund gambling
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
• Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
• Experiencing financial hardship due to gambling

Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features

Most licensed gaming platforms offer built-in protections. Use these tools to maintain control:

• Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
• Loss Limits: Cap the maximum amount you're willing to lose in a session
• Reality Checks: Enable reminders during gaming sessions to help you track time and spending
• Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
• Cooling-Off Periods: Take mandatory breaks from gaming
• Account Restrictions: Limit access to your gaming account

Take advantage of these features — they exist to protect you.

Support & Help Resources in Australia

If you're struggling with gambling, professional help is available and confidential. Please reach out:

• Gambling Help Online (Australia)
  www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
  Free, confidential counselling and support for all Australians. Phone: 1800 858 858
• Gambler's Help (Victoria)
  www.gamblershelp.com.au
  Free counselling service. Phone: 1800 858 858
• GamCare (UK-based, international support)
  www.gamcare.org.uk
  Support for problem gamblers and their families

If You Need Help, Please Reach Out

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Problem gambling is treatable, and support services are free and confidential. Whether you're experiencing gambling problems yourself or are concerned about someone else, professional counsellors are ready to help.

Don't struggle alone — contact Gambling Help Online today: 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au