Responsible Gaming

Online gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Casino games are based on chance or other random outcomes, so previous results do not predict future results. A winning streak does not make a future win more likely, and a loss does not mean that a win is due. Always treat money spent on gambling as an entertainment cost that may not be returned.

Before you play, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Consider this amount a leisure budget, similar to the cost of another recreational activity. Do not use gambling to replace income, solve financial problems or reach a particular financial target. If you cannot afford to lose the money, do not use it for gambling.

Practical ways to stay in control

• Set a spending limit before you begin and avoid increasing it during a session.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the device or website.
• Keep gambling separate from essential household expenses, rent, bills and savings.
• Never gamble with borrowed money, credit intended for necessities or money needed by someone else.
• Do not chase losses by increasing stakes or continuing to play for longer than planned.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, tired, under the influence of alcohol or affected by medication.
• Keep a record of deposits, withdrawals, playing time and results so your habits remain visible.
• Remember that a bonus, promotion or game feature does not change the underlying risk of losing money.

It can also help to tell someone you trust about your limits. A partner, family member or close friend may notice changes in your behaviour and provide useful support. Being open about gambling is not a sign of failure; it is a practical step towards keeping it within safe boundaries.

Take care with gambling during stressful periods or major life changes. Financial pressure, relationship difficulties, loneliness and poor mental health can make it harder to make balanced decisions. If your circumstances change, review whether gambling still fits within your budget and consider taking a break.

Gambling-related harm can develop gradually. It may affect finances, relationships, work, study, sleep, mood and general wellbeing. You do not need to wait for a major crisis before asking for help. Early support can make it easier to change your habits and reduce the impact on you and the people around you.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you intended.
• Repeatedly trying to cut back or stop but finding that you cannot.
• Chasing losses or believing that one more session will recover previous losses.
• Hiding gambling activity, deposits, withdrawals or losses from people close to you.
• Borrowing money, selling possessions or missing bills to continue gambling.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when you try to stop or take a break.
• Thinking about gambling during work, study, family time or other important activities.
• Gambling to escape stress, loneliness, sadness, anger or other difficult feelings.
• Arguing with family or friends because of gambling.
• Feeling shame, guilt or hopelessness after gambling, then returning to play.

One or more of these signs may indicate that gambling is no longer staying within safe limits. Consider stopping play, applying a break or self-exclusion option where available, and speaking with an independent gambling support service. A trusted person can also help you review finances, reduce access to gambling and make a plan for the next step.

Do not try to solve gambling losses by gambling more. Further play can increase the financial and emotional impact. Instead, pause, list any immediate priorities such as bills or debt, and seek practical advice from an appropriate financial or support service. Avoid making decisions about further gambling while feeling distressed or under pressure.

Support in Australia

Players in Australia can seek confidential information and support through Gambling Help Online, state and territory gambling support services, qualified counsellors, general practitioners and other independent health professionals. These services can help with urges, financial stress, relationship concerns and strategies for stopping or reducing gambling. You can seek help for yourself or ask for guidance about supporting someone else.

If gambling has contributed to an immediate risk to your safety or the safety of another person, contact emergency services or seek urgent help from a health professional. If you are experiencing severe distress or thoughts of self-harm, get immediate support and do not remain alone.