Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Every bet can result in a loss, regardless of previous results, a preferred game or a personal strategy. A winning result does not mean that future bets will win, and a losing run does not mean that a win is due. Outcomes are not a reliable way to earn income.

Before you play, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat that amount as an entertainment cost, in the same way you might budget for a meal, a film or another leisure activity. Only use money that is available after essential expenses have been paid. Do not use rent, mortgage payments, household bills, loan repayments, emergency savings or money set aside for other important needs.

• Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
• Do not gamble to make money or improve your financial position.
• Do not chase losses by increasing bet sizes or playing for longer.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, stressed, tired, angry or under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Take regular breaks and keep gambling separate from work, study, family time and other responsibilities.
• Remember that gambling is not a suitable activity for anyone under 18.

Keeping a simple record of deposits, bets, wins, losses and time spent playing can help you understand your activity. Reviewing your records may make it easier to notice changes in your behaviour before they become difficult to manage. If the results are causing stress or you are uncomfortable with the amount of time or money involved, stop playing and consider seeking support.

Plan your limits before playing

Limits work best when they are decided before you start gambling. Consider setting a spending limit for each session and a broader limit for a day, week or month. You may also wish to set a time limit and a limit on the number of sessions you have. A limit should be realistic, based on your personal circumstances and low enough that reaching it will not affect your essential commitments.

Use available account controls where applicable, such as deposit limits, loss limits, wagering limits, session reminders, time-outs or self-exclusion. The names, availability and operation of these controls can vary by service and jurisdiction. Read the relevant information carefully before confirming a limit. Some limits may take effect immediately, while others may be subject to a cooling-off period or other conditions.

Practical steps for staying in control

1. Set a budget using money left after essential living costs and financial commitments.
2. Choose a maximum amount and maximum playing time before opening a game or placing a bet.
3. Record your activity so that deposits, withdrawals, wins, losses and time spent are not overlooked.
4. Stop when your limit is reached, even if you are winning or believe a result may change soon.
5. Keep payment methods and account access secure, and do not ask another person to gamble on your behalf.
6. Review your limits regularly, particularly after a change in income, employment, health or personal circumstances.

Increasing a limit immediately after a loss can make it harder to remain in control. If you feel an urge to change your limits, pause and take time away from gambling. A cooling-off period can help you make a decision without pressure. You can also speak with someone you trust or contact a qualified support service for confidential guidance.

Promotions, offers and other incentives should never be used as a reason to gamble beyond your budget. Consider any applicable terms before participating, and do not treat bonus funds or promotional credit as free money. You remain responsible for your decisions and for checking whether an activity is suitable for you.

Recognise when gambling may be a problem

Problem gambling can affect anyone. It is not determined by how much a person wins or loses, how often they play or whether they believe they are in control. A person may experience difficulties even when gambling takes place occasionally. The important question is whether gambling is causing harm or becoming difficult to stop.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you planned.
• Trying to win back money after a loss, often by increasing stakes or extending a session.
• Feeling restless, irritable or preoccupied when you cannot gamble.
• Borrowing money, selling belongings or using credit to fund gambling.
• Hiding gambling activity, losses or account transactions from family, friends or colleagues.
• Missing work, study, appointments or family commitments because of gambling.
• Arguing with people close to you about gambling or becoming socially withdrawn.
• Feeling guilty, anxious, depressed or overwhelmed after gambling.
• Neglecting sleep, exercise, health, personal care or other interests.
• Attempting to stop or cut back but being unable to do so.
• Gambling to escape personal problems or to change your mood.
• Thinking about gambling frequently, even when you are doing other activities.

One warning sign may be enough to justify taking a break and reviewing your habits. You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help. Speaking with a trusted person early can reduce isolation and make it easier to take practical steps. Support is available whether you want to stop completely, take a break or understand your behaviour better.

If gambling is affecting your finances, consider contacting a free financial counselling service in Australia. A financial counsellor may help you understand your options, organise payments and plan safer steps. If gambling is affecting your mental health or relationships, a qualified health professional or gambling support service can provide confidential assistance.

Taking a break or self-excluding

A break from gambling can be a useful way to regain control. You may choose to stop for a short period, close access to an account or request self-exclusion where that option is available. Self-exclusion is a formal decision to prevent or restrict your access to gambling services for a selected period or under applicable conditions. It should be considered carefully because the operation of self-exclusion can vary between services.

If you decide to take a break, make it easier to follow by removing gambling apps or bookmarks, turning off marketing notifications, avoiding gambling-related content and asking a trusted person to support your decision. You may also wish to contact your bank or payment provider to ask whether gambling transaction controls or other spending safeguards are available.

If you are helping someone else

Gambling harm can affect partners, family members, friends and colleagues as well as the person gambling. If you are concerned about someone, choose a calm time to speak with them. Use specific observations rather than blame, explain how their behaviour is affecting you and encourage them to seek professional support. You cannot control another adult's decisions, so protect your own finances, personal information and wellbeing.

• Do not lend money to fund gambling or repay gambling losses without obtaining advice.
• Keep joint accounts, passwords, cards and important documents secure.
• Set clear boundaries about what financial help you can and cannot provide.
• Seek support for yourself, even if the other person does not want help.
• If you believe anyone is in immediate danger, contact emergency services in Australia.

Account controls and self-exclusion are not a replacement for professional support. They are practical tools that can help create distance from gambling while you decide what further assistance may be appropriate. If you have excluded yourself, do not attempt to bypass the restriction by opening another account or using another person's account.

Finding support in Australia

Confidential help is available across Australia for people affected by gambling. You can contact a recognised gambling support service, speak with your general practitioner or mental health professional, or seek financial counselling. These services can help you understand your options, create a plan, manage urges, address financial concerns and support conversations with family members.

Gambling Help Online is an Australian support service that provides information, tools, counselling and guidance for people affected by gambling harm. State and territory gambling support services may also provide free and confidential assistance. Search for the official service relevant to your location and check that the website or service is genuine before sharing personal information.

You can also speak with someone you trust, such as a family member, friend, doctor, counsellor or community support worker. Asking for help is a practical step, not a failure. If you are experiencing severe distress or think you may harm yourself or someone else, seek urgent assistance through local emergency services or a crisis support service in Australia.

If you have questions about available responsible gaming features or wish to discuss account restrictions, use the support options provided on the website. We may need to verify account information before applying certain controls. Do not share your password or allow another person to use your account. Our responsible gaming information is intended to help you make informed decisions, but it does not replace independent financial, legal, medical or psychological advice.