Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online poker should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While poker can be thrilling and fun, it's important to approach it with the right mindset and healthy habits. Remember: the house always has an edge, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
In Australia, you must be 18 years of age or older to participate in online poker and gambling activities. It is illegal for anyone under this age to gamble online. Captain Courageous Foundation is committed to preventing underage gambling and strictly enforces age verification protocols.
If you are under 18, please do not use this website.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. If you recognise any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know, it may be time to seek help:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Gambling with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same level of excitement
- Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to gambling
- Experiencing mood swings or irritability when unable to gamble
- Feeling anxious or restless when not gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to stop or reduce gambling
- Using gambling as an escape from stress, anxiety, or other emotional problems
- Lying to others about your gambling habits or losses
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable online poker platforms offer tools to help you maintain control of your gambling. Take advantage of these features:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during your gaming session about how long you've been playing and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from accessing online poker sites
- Session Time Limits: Set maximum duration for your gaming sessions
- Account Closure: Request a temporary suspension or permanent closure of your account
If your poker provider doesn't offer these tools, consider switching to one that does. Your safety and wellbeing are paramount.
Support Organisations & Help Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Please reach out to one of these trusted organisations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au — Free, confidential telephone and online counselling service for Australians affected by gambling problems. Call 1800 858 858
United Kingdom
- GamCare: www.gamcare.org.uk — Free support and information for anyone affected by problem gambling
- GamStop: www.gamstop.co.uk — National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council: www.responsiblegambling.org — Evidence-based resources and support for problem gambling
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling: www.ncpgambling.org — Call the National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA): Provides information and support for gambling-related issues in Germany
All services are confidential and free. You don't have to struggle alone.
If You Need Help, Please Reach Out
Recognising that you have a problem is the first step toward recovery. Whether you're experiencing problem gambling yourself or you're concerned about someone else, professional support is available and can make a real difference.
Don't hesitate to contact one of the organisations listed above. They have experienced counsellors who understand problem gambling and can provide confidential, non-judgmental support.
Your health, wellbeing, and relationships are more important than any game. Take control today.