Responsible Gaming

Gambling should remain entertainment

Online gambling can be enjoyable when it is approached with care and kept within reasonable personal and financial boundaries. It also involves risk, and outcomes are never guaranteed. No strategy, system or pattern can ensure a win. Previous results do not predict future results, and a losing session cannot be corrected by continuing to play.

Only gamble with money you can afford to lose after your everyday expenses and financial commitments have been covered. Gambling should not be funded with borrowed money, money needed for bills, or money set aside for essential household costs. It should also not be used as an alternative to employment, saving, investing or professional financial advice.

Healthy gambling habits

• Decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending before you begin.
• Set a budget and treat it as an entertainment expense, not an investment.
• Take regular breaks and make time for other activities, interests and relationships.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, tired, stressed, intoxicated or trying to recover losses.
• Keep track of your deposits, wagers and spending rather than relying on memory.
• Never chase losses by increasing stakes or playing for longer than planned.
• Remember that gambling outcomes are based on chance and cannot be controlled.
• Do not gamble to impress others or because you feel pressured to continue.

Before using the service, consider whether gambling fits comfortably within your circumstances. If you are uncertain, pause and discuss your concerns with someone you trust or an appropriately qualified support professional.

Recognising when gambling may be a problem

Gambling-related harm can develop gradually. A problem is not defined only by the amount of money spent. It may also involve time, secrecy, emotional distress, conflict or difficulty meeting responsibilities. Consider taking a break and seeking support if any of the following signs apply to you or someone close to you.

• You spend more money or time gambling than you planned.
• You frequently think about gambling or feel restless when you cannot play.
• You chase losses or increase your bets to try to recover money.
• You hide gambling activity, deposits, losses or account information.
• You borrow money, sell possessions or miss important payments to gamble.
• Gambling affects your work, study, sleep, health or relationships.
• You feel anxious, guilty, irritable or low after gambling.
• You have tried to cut back or stop but have not been able to do so.
• You use gambling to escape stress, loneliness or other difficult feelings.
• Someone close to you has raised concerns about your gambling.

Experiencing one or more of these signs does not mean you should manage the situation alone. Acting early can make it easier to regain control. Stop gambling, avoid making further deposits and speak with a trusted person or a qualified gambling support service.

Support in Australia

Players in Australia can seek confidential information and counselling from recognised gambling support services, including Gambling Help Online and state or territory gambling help providers. These services can support people who gamble, as well as family members, friends and others affected by gambling. A general practitioner or mental health professional may also help you discuss gambling concerns and related stress.

If gambling has contributed to an immediate risk to your safety or the safety of someone else, stop gambling and contact emergency services or an urgent mental health service in your area. If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm, seek immediate crisis support and do not remain alone.