Responsible Gaming

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Games are based on chance or other outcomes that cannot be controlled or predicted with certainty. A previous win does not make another win more likely, and a loss does not mean that a win is due. Trying to recover losses by continuing to gamble can increase the risk of financial and personal harm.

Treat gambling as a leisure activity with a cost, similar to other forms of entertainment. Decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending before you start. Once your limit has been reached, stop playing, regardless of whether you are winning or losing. Do not rely on gambling to pay bills, cover essential expenses or improve your financial situation.

• Only gamble with disposable income after essential household costs have been covered.
• Set a spending limit for each gambling session and for a longer period, such as a week or month.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the device you are using.
• Keep gambling separate from money needed for rent, mortgage payments, food, utilities, education or other commitments.
• Do not borrow money, use credit intended for essential expenses or sell possessions to fund gambling.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, stressed, tired, affected by alcohol or affected by other drugs.
• Remember that promotional offers do not remove the risks of gambling and should never encourage you to spend more than planned.

It can also help to keep a personal record of deposits, withdrawals, time spent playing and the results of your gambling. Reviewing this information may provide a more realistic view of your activity than relying on memory alone. If gambling stops feeling enjoyable or begins to affect other parts of your life, take a break and seek support.

Problem gambling can develop gradually and may affect anyone. You do not need to wait for a serious financial loss before asking for help. Consider speaking with a qualified support service if gambling is taking more time or money than planned, or if you are concerned about its effect on your wellbeing or relationships.

• Spending more than you can afford or using money set aside for essential costs.
• Increasing the amount or frequency of gambling to achieve the same excitement.
• Trying to win back money after a loss or feeling unable to stop once you start.
• Hiding gambling, deposits, losses or account activity from family, friends or colleagues.
• Borrowing money, selling items or missing payments because of gambling.
• Feeling anxious, irritable, guilty, restless or low when you are not gambling.
• Neglecting work, study, health, family, social activities or other responsibilities.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or making repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut back.
• Using gambling to escape loneliness, stress, sadness or other difficult feelings.

If any of these signs feel familiar, stop gambling and seek support as soon as possible. Speaking with someone you trust can be a useful first step. A qualified gambling support service can provide confidential information, practical strategies and counselling for people who gamble, as well as for family members and friends affected by gambling.

Support in Australia

Players in Australia can seek information and assistance through Gambling Help Online and other services available in their state or territory. These services can explain treatment options, help with financial and emotional concerns, and support people who want to reduce or stop gambling. Search for the official Australian Government or state and territory gambling support resources to find current assistance options.

If gambling has contributed to an immediate safety concern, severe distress or thoughts of self-harm, seek urgent help through emergency services or a crisis support service in Australia. Your safety is more important than any gambling account or financial loss.