Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Results are determined by chance or by the rules of the relevant game. Previous results do not predict future results, and a losing streak does not make a win more likely. Avoid believing that a particular strategy, system or timing can remove the risk of losing.

Only gamble with money you can afford to lose after essential expenses have been paid. Gambling should never take priority over rent, mortgage payments, bills, food, education, healthcare or other important commitments. Do not use borrowed money, credit intended for living expenses or funds set aside for another purpose to gamble.

A useful starting point is to decide in advance how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat these amounts as entertainment costs rather than an investment. Once your planned budget or session time has been reached, stop playing, even if you are winning or trying to recover losses.

• Play only when you are calm, alert and able to make sensible decisions.
• Never gamble when you are upset, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or trying to escape personal problems.
• Do not chase losses by increasing your stakes or extending your session.
• Take regular breaks and keep track of how long you have been playing.
• Keep gambling separate from essential spending and financial obligations.
• Remember that a win is not guaranteed and a loss should not be treated as a debt to recover.

Set limits and take control

Planning your gambling before you begin can help you remain in control. Consider setting a spending limit for a day, week or month, together with a maximum session length. Choose limits based on your personal budget, not on how much you hope to win. If the available account tools allow you to set deposit, spending, loss or time limits, use them before you start playing.

Limits are most effective when they are realistic and respected. Do not reduce a limit during a session because you are chasing a result, and do not increase it simply because you have lost money. If you feel that a limit is difficult to maintain, stop gambling and request a break or other available account restriction.

Practical steps for safer play

1. Decide your maximum budget before opening a game.
2. Record deposits, withdrawals and gambling time so you have a clear view of your activity.
3. Use available account reminders, limits or cooling-off features where appropriate.
4. Avoid playing across multiple websites or accounts to get around a limit.
5. Keep payment methods secure and do not allow another person to use your account.
6. Review your gambling regularly and change your approach if it is affecting your wellbeing or finances.

A temporary break can be useful when you want time away from gambling. A longer exclusion may be more appropriate if you are finding it difficult to stop or control your activity. Contact the relevant support team through the available account or website channels to ask what safer-gambling options may be available. Restrictions may not be reversible immediately, so consider your decision carefully.

Recognise signs of harm

Gambling harm can develop gradually, and it is not always easy to recognise. You may be at risk if gambling is taking more time, attention or money than you intended. It can also affect relationships, work, study, sleep, physical health and emotional wellbeing.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more money or time gambling than planned.
• Trying to win back money after a loss or feeling unable to stop during a session.
• Gambling with money needed for bills, daily living or other responsibilities.
• Borrowing money, selling belongings or hiding gambling activity from others.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when you cannot gamble.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or putting it before family, work, study or social activities.
• Continuing to gamble despite financial, relationship, work or emotional problems.
• Feeling guilt, shame, stress or low mood connected with gambling.

One warning sign can be enough reason to take a break and review your gambling. Speak honestly with someone you trust and consider contacting an independent gambling support service in Australia. Support is available for people who gamble and for family members or friends affected by someone else’s gambling. If gambling is causing serious distress or you feel unsafe, seek urgent help from local emergency or health services.

Do not attempt to manage serious gambling problems alone. Independent support services can help you understand your options, create a plan, manage financial concerns and access counselling. They can also explain available self-exclusion or restriction options. Information and support may be available from Australian health services, gambling-help organisations and state or territory services.

Your safety and responsibilities

You must meet the minimum legal age and other requirements that apply to online gambling in your location. Do not use the service if gambling is not lawful where you are located. You are responsible for understanding and following the laws that apply to you, including any restrictions on online gambling, payments or access to gambling services.

Accounts should be used only by the registered account holder. Do not share login details, payment methods or access with another person, and take reasonable steps to protect your password and devices. If you believe someone else has accessed your account, stop using it and contact the available support channel as soon as possible.

If you are under the legal gambling age, do not create an account or attempt to play. Parents and carers should use device, payment and account controls to help prevent minors from accessing gambling services. No online control can replace active supervision, so keep account credentials and payment details private.

When to stop and ask for help

Stop gambling if you have reached your limit, are no longer enjoying the activity or feel pressure to continue. You can also request information about available account restrictions, breaks or exclusion measures through the relevant support channel. If you are concerned about another person’s gambling, approach the conversation with care, explain what you have noticed and encourage them to seek independent help.

Responsible gaming information is general guidance and is not a substitute for professional financial, legal, medical or counselling advice. Gambling outcomes cannot be guaranteed, and responsible play cannot eliminate the possibility of loss. If gambling no longer feels like entertainment, taking a complete break and seeking support are sensible next steps.