Responsible Gaming

Gambling involves risk, and every bet can result in a loss. Casino games are based on chance, so previous results do not determine what will happen next. A winning session does not mean that future results are more likely to be favourable, and a losing session cannot be corrected by continuing to play. There is no guaranteed strategy for winning.

For players in Australia, gambling should be treated as paid entertainment. Only use money that has already been set aside for leisure and that you can afford to lose without affecting your household expenses, savings, bills or other commitments. Do not use borrowed money, credit intended for essential expenses or money needed by another person.

Before opening a game, decide how much time and money you are prepared to spend. Make your decisions in advance, while you are calm, and follow them during your session. If you reach your spending or time limit, stop playing. Avoid increasing your limits simply because you are losing, and do not chase losses by trying to win back money through further gambling.

Practical habits for safer play

• Set a personal budget for gambling and keep it separate from money reserved for rent, food, utilities, transport, education and other essentials.
• Set a time limit before you begin and take regular breaks away from the screen.
• Keep track of deposits, bets and losses rather than relying on memory.
• Do not gamble when you are upset, tired, angry, intoxicated or under pressure.
• Never borrow money, sell belongings or ask others for funds to continue gambling.
• Do not gamble to escape stress, loneliness, boredom or personal problems.
• Treat wins as part of the entertainment experience, not as regular income.
• Avoid making gambling decisions on behalf of another person or allowing someone else to use your account.
• Keep your account credentials private and use only your own payment methods.
• Stop immediately if gambling no longer feels enjoyable or manageable.

Gambling can become difficult to control for some people. A problem may develop gradually, and it may not always be obvious to the person gambling or to those close to them. You do not need to wait for serious financial harm before asking for help. Speaking with someone early can make it easier to understand what is happening and decide what support may be useful.

Possible signs of concern

• Spending more time or money gambling than you planned.
• Trying to reduce or stop gambling but finding that you cannot.
• Chasing losses or believing that a large win will solve financial problems.
• Feeling restless, irritable or preoccupied when you are not gambling.
• Hiding gambling activity, losses or account transactions from family, friends or colleagues.
• Borrowing money, missing payments or selling belongings because of gambling.
• Using gambling to cope with stress, sadness, anxiety or other difficult feelings.
• Neglecting work, study, relationships, health or everyday responsibilities.
• Arguing with people close to you about gambling or its financial effects.
• Continuing to gamble despite recognising that it is causing harm.

If any of these signs apply, stop and take a break rather than trying to solve the situation through more gambling. Consider telling a trusted person what is happening. An honest conversation can provide practical support, help protect your finances and make it easier to follow a plan. You can also speak with a qualified health professional or a recognised Australian gambling support organisation for confidential guidance.

Support is available for people who gamble and for family members, partners and friends affected by someone else’s gambling. A counsellor or support service can help with budgeting, communication, emotional wellbeing, treatment options and steps such as restricting access to gambling. If gambling is contributing to an immediate risk to your safety or the safety of another person, contact emergency services or seek urgent assistance from a health professional.