Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Fun, Not Financial
At Encompass Books, we're committed to promoting responsible gaming practices. Star Casino and all online gambling should be viewed as entertainment only—never as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. Set a budget you can afford to lose, and stick to it. Remember: the house always has an edge, and losing is a natural part of gambling.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to gamble in Australia. If you are under this age, please do not proceed. Gambling is not suitable for minors, and there are serious legal consequences for underage gambling.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you experience any of the following, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding your gambling activity or lying about how much you gamble
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when you try to reduce gambling
- Gambling for longer periods or with larger amounts than intended
- Neglecting family, work, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Friends or family expressing concern about your gambling habits
If you recognise any of these signs, help is available.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most reputable gambling operators offer tools to help you 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 given period
- Time Limits: Set reminders or automatic logout features to limit session duration
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic notifications during play to help you stay aware of time and money spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling accounts and venues
- Account Cooling-Off: Take a break from gambling for a set period
Use these tools proactively to keep gambling fun and within your control.
Australian & International Support Organizations
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, free confidential support is available:
Australia
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Gambling Help Online
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Free, confidential counselling and support for problem gambling across Australia
United Kingdom
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GamCare
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free support, advice, and counselling for problem gambling -
GamStop
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling in the UK
Canada
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Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Resources and support for problem gambling in Canada
United States
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National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
Free, confidential support and referrals for problem gambling
Germany
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Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA)
Resources and support for problem gambling in Germany
If You're Struggling, Help Is Available
Problem gambling is a serious issue, but it is treatable. If you or someone you care about is experiencing gambling-related problems, please reach out to one of the support organisations listed above. These services are:
- Free — at no cost to you
- Confidential — your privacy is protected
- Non-judgmental — trained counsellors are here to help, not to judge
Don't suffer in silence. Seek help today.