Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Casino games operate according to their rules, and outcomes may be determined by chance. Past results do not predict future results. A losing run does not mean that a win is due, and a previous win does not make another win more likely. Avoid gambling with the expectation of recovering losses or creating a regular income.

Only gamble with money you can afford to lose after your essential costs have been paid. Money needed for rent, mortgage payments, food, bills, education, transport, savings or other important commitments should not be used for gambling. Do not borrow money, use credit or sell belongings to fund play. If a gambling session is no longer affordable, end the session.

• Decide how much time and money you can spend before you begin.
• Keep gambling separate from household money and essential spending.
• Never chase losses by increasing your stakes or playing for longer.
• Do not gamble when you are upset, stressed, tired, angry or affected by alcohol or other drugs.
• Take regular breaks and avoid playing for longer than you originally planned.
• Remember that wins are not guaranteed and losses are part of gambling.
• Do not treat gambling as an investment or a source of income.
• Keep your gambling private from children and do not allow underage people to use your account or device.

It may help to keep a personal record of deposits, withdrawals, wins, losses and time spent playing. Reviewing this information can provide a clearer picture of your gambling activity than relying on memory. Consider discussing your limits with someone you trust so that you have additional encouragement to follow them. A trusted person may also help you notice changes in your behaviour that you have not recognised.

Avoid chasing losses

Chasing losses means continuing to gamble or increasing your spending because you want to recover money already lost. This can lead to larger losses and make it harder to stop. A loss should not be treated as a debt that gambling must repay. If you notice that you are playing to win back money, pause immediately, leave the game and consider using a temporary break or self-exclusion option.

Recognising gambling harm

Gambling harm can develop gradually and may affect finances, relationships, physical health, emotional wellbeing, work, study or other responsibilities. Some people do not recognise a problem until it has caused significant stress. Consider your gambling and seek advice if you notice changes in your behaviour or if people close to you express concern.

• Spending more money or time gambling than you intended.
• Trying to win back money after a loss or feeling unable to stop during a session.
• Increasing your stakes to achieve the same excitement.
• Borrowing money, using credit or selling possessions to gamble.
• Hiding or minimising your gambling from family, friends or colleagues.
• Missing work, study, appointments or social commitments because of gambling.
• Feeling anxious, guilty, irritable or low after gambling.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or finding it difficult to focus on other activities.
• Arguing with people close to you about money or gambling.
• Neglecting bills, savings, health or other important responsibilities.
• Gambling to escape stress, sadness, loneliness or other difficult feelings.
• Continuing to gamble despite recognising that it is causing problems.

One or more of these signs does not mean that you must manage the situation alone. It is a reason to pause and consider support. Stop gambling, review your account activity and speak openly with someone you trust. Professional gambling support services can provide confidential advice, practical strategies and assistance tailored to your circumstances.

If gambling is causing serious financial difficulty, consider contacting a financial counsellor. If gambling is affecting your mental health or you feel unsafe, contact an appropriate health or crisis service in Australia, or contact emergency services if there is immediate danger. Your wellbeing is more important than any gambling account or financial outcome.

If you are worried about someone else

Family members and friends can also be affected by gambling harm. If you are concerned about another person, you can seek advice even if they are not ready to ask for help. Avoid giving money to cover gambling losses, set clear boundaries around shared finances and protect access to household funds where appropriate. Choose a calm time to discuss your concerns without blame, and encourage the person to contact a recognised support service.