Responsible Gaming

Gamble responsibly and stay in control

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to predict or influence the outcome of a game, event or wager. Results are determined by chance, sporting performance or other factors outside your control. A previous win does not make another win more likely, and a previous loss does not mean that a win is due. Avoid systems or strategies that claim to guarantee success.

Responsible gambling means making deliberate choices before you play and sticking to them. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose after essential expenses have been paid. Your gambling budget should not affect rent, mortgage payments, bills, food, education, transport, savings or other financial commitments. Never use borrowed money, credit intended for essential needs or money set aside for someone else.

• Set a spending limit before you begin and do not increase it during a session.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the screen.
• Keep gambling separate from everyday spending so that transactions are easy to understand.
• Do not chase losses by increasing stakes or continuing for longer than planned.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, stressed, tired, angry or affected by alcohol or other drugs.
• Do not gamble to solve financial problems or to change your mood.
• Keep your account details private and do not allow another person to gamble through your account.
• Treat all winnings as uncertain and avoid making financial plans based on expected wins.

It can also help to tell someone you trust about your limits. A partner, friend or family member may help you remain accountable and notice changes in your behaviour. If gambling no longer feels like a choice, take a break and seek independent support rather than trying to manage the situation alone.

Recognising signs of gambling harm

Gambling harm can affect finances, relationships, work, study, physical health and emotional wellbeing. It can happen to anyone, including people who have gambled for a long time without difficulties. You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help. Early support can make it easier to regain control.

Consider taking a break and speaking with someone if you recognise any of these signs:

• You gamble for longer or spend more than you intended.
• You keep thinking about gambling when you are working, studying, resting or spending time with others.
• You chase losses or believe a large win will solve your financial problems.
• You hide your gambling, deposits, losses or account activity from people close to you.
• You borrow money, sell possessions or miss essential payments to continue gambling.
• You feel restless, irritable or anxious when you try to stop or reduce gambling.
• Gambling causes arguments, relationship problems, reduced performance or missed responsibilities.
• You use gambling to escape sadness, stress, loneliness or other difficult feelings.
• You return to gambling after deciding to stop or repeatedly break your own limits.
• You feel shame, hopelessness or distress because of your gambling.

If any of these signs apply, stop gambling and consider restricting access to your account. Speak openly with a trusted person and contact an independent gambling support service in your state or territory. Australian support services can provide confidential information, counselling and practical assistance for people who gamble and for affected family members or friends. Services such as Gambling Help Online and the National Gambling Helpline may provide further guidance, subject to their current availability and eligibility arrangements.

If gambling has contributed to serious financial stress, consider speaking with a free or independent financial counselling service. If you feel unsafe, are experiencing a mental health crisis or may harm yourself or someone else, contact emergency services or an urgent crisis support service in Australia immediately. Gambling support is available for affected others as well as the person gambling.