Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
At Pretty Patch Styles, we believe that online pokies and gaming should be enjoyed as entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. While gaming can be fun and exciting, it's important to approach it responsibly and within your means.
Remember: the house always has an edge. Only gamble what you can afford to lose, and never chase losses.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your state or territory) to participate in online gaming. Gaming is not permitted for minors.
We are committed to preventing underage gambling. If you are under the legal age, please do not use our services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognise these warning signs that your gaming may be becoming problematic:
- Spending more time and money on gaming than intended
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activity from family, friends, or partners
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotional problems
- Borrowing money or using credit to fund your gaming
- Neglecting work, study, family, or personal responsibilities
- Feeling anxious or irritable when not gaming or when trying to stop
- Repeatedly trying and failing to cut back or stop gaming
- Experiencing relationship conflicts due to your gaming habits
- Using gaming as your primary source of income or financial solution
If you recognise any of these signs in your own behaviour, it's time to seek help.
Self-Help Tools & Controls
Most responsible gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- 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 before stopping
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders about how long you've been gaming and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming platforms
- Time Limits: Set automatic session timeouts to prevent excessive gaming
- Take a Break: Use cooling-off periods to step away from gaming
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gaming habits.
Support & Help Resources
If you're struggling with problem gambling, professional help is available. Please reach out to one of these support organisations:
Australia
- Gambling Help Online – Free, confidential support service
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Phone: 1800 858 858 (24/7)
United Kingdom
- GamCare – Free support and treatment for problem gamblers
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop – National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council – Evidence-based information and resources
www.responsiblegambling.org
United States
- National Council on Problem Gambling – Crisis support and referrals
www.ncpgambling.org
National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Germany
- Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) – Federal Centre for Health Education
Telefonberatung: 0800-0040061
If You Need Help, Reach Out Today
Problem gambling is a serious issue that affects many people and their families. There is no shame in seeking help. Support is available 24/7, and professional counsellors are trained to listen without judgment.
If gambling is causing harm to you or someone you know, please contact one of the support organisations listed above immediately.
Your wellbeing is important. Taking action now can prevent further harm and help you regain control of your life.