Responsible Gaming

Online casino games involve risk, and outcomes are determined by chance. No strategy, pattern or system can guarantee a win. Previous results do not influence future results, and a losing session does not mean that a win is due. You should only gamble with money that you can afford to lose after essential living costs and other financial commitments have been covered.

Before you play, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat this amount as an entertainment expense rather than an investment. Once your limit has been reached, stop playing, even if you feel tempted to continue or try to recover losses. Chasing losses can lead to larger bets, longer sessions and decisions that you may later regret.

Practical ways to stay in control

• Set a personal spending limit before each session and do not increase it while playing.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the screen.
• Keep gambling separate from money needed for rent, bills, food, education or other essentials.
• Do not borrow money, use credit intended for other purposes or sell possessions to fund gambling.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, stressed, tired, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or trying to escape personal problems.
• Keep a clear record of deposits, withdrawals and time spent playing.
• Do not rely on gambling winnings to pay debts or meet regular expenses.
• Consider discussing your limits with someone you trust so that you have additional accountability.

A useful rule is to decide your boundaries before you begin, rather than during a session. Strong emotions, excitement and frustration can make it harder to judge risk clearly. Taking a break gives you time to reassess whether gambling is still a form of entertainment for you.

Gambling harm can affect finances, relationships, work, study, physical health and emotional wellbeing. It may develop gradually, and a person may not recognise the impact immediately. There is no need to wait until a problem becomes severe before taking action or asking for support.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you intended.
• Increasing bet amounts to experience the same level of excitement.
• Trying to win back money after a loss.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when you cannot gamble.
• Hiding gambling activity, deposits, withdrawals or losses from family and friends.
• Borrowing money, missing bills or using savings to continue gambling.
• Gambling to cope with stress, loneliness, sadness or other difficult feelings.
• Losing interest in work, study, family activities or hobbies.
• Arguing with people close to you about gambling.
• Feeling guilty, ashamed or unable to stop after deciding to stop.
• Returning to gambling soon after promising yourself that you would take a break.

If any of these signs apply to you, pause gambling and consider using an account break or exclusion. Tell someone you trust what is happening and seek independent support. Asking for help is a practical step, not a failure. Support is also available for family members, friends and other people affected by someone else's gambling.

Support in Australia

People in Australia can seek confidential information, counselling and practical assistance from recognised gambling support services, including services available in their state or territory. You can contact a relevant gambling help service, speak with a qualified health professional or ask a trusted person to help you locate appropriate support. If gambling has contributed to immediate financial, relationship or personal safety concerns, seek urgent assistance from the appropriate emergency or community service.

If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or feel that you may be in immediate danger, contact emergency services or a crisis support service without delay. Your safety is more important than any gambling account, balance or loss.