Responsible Gaming

Gamble responsibly

Responsible gaming means making informed choices and keeping gambling within limits that are suitable for your personal and financial circumstances. Before you play, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Consider this amount an entertainment expense, similar to the cost of another leisure activity, and never spend more than you can afford to lose.

Gambling outcomes are determined by chance, where applicable, and past results do not predict future results. A win is never guaranteed, and no strategy can ensure a profit. Avoid viewing gambling as an investment, income source or solution to debt. Do not chase losses by continuing to play in an attempt to recover money. This can increase losses and make it harder to stay in control.

• Set a spending limit before you begin and stop when the limit is reached.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the game.
• Only gamble with money available after essential living costs have been paid.
• Keep gambling separate from money needed for rent, bills, food, savings or debt repayments.
• Do not borrow money, use credit irresponsibly or sell possessions to fund gambling.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, stressed, tired, under the influence of alcohol or affected by medication.
• Do not gamble to win back losses or to change your mood.
• Keep your account details secure and do not allow another person to use your account.

If gambling stops feeling like a choice, take a break and seek assistance. Speaking with someone early can make it easier to regain control. Support is available even if you are unsure whether your gambling is a serious problem.

Recognising signs of gambling harm

Gambling harm can affect anyone. It may develop gradually and can involve financial, emotional, social, work or health consequences. Some warning signs may be easy to dismiss, particularly when gambling is described as recreation. Consider seeking support if any of the following apply to you or someone close to you:

• Spending more time or money gambling than planned.
• Finding it difficult to stop, reduce gambling or take a break.
• Chasing losses or gambling with money intended for necessities.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when trying to stop.
• Hiding gambling activity, losses or transactions from family and friends.
• Borrowing money, using credit or selling belongings to continue gambling.
• Missing work, study, family activities or other responsibilities.
• Gambling to escape stress, sadness, loneliness or other difficult feelings.
• Arguing with people close to you because of gambling.
• Feeling guilty, hopeless or distressed after gambling.
• Neglecting sleep, health, relationships or everyday responsibilities.
• Believing that a large win is necessary to resolve financial problems.

You do not need to wait for several warning signs before asking for help. A qualified counsellor or support service can help you understand your gambling, make a plan and address related financial or emotional concerns. You can also support someone else by listening without judgement, encouraging professional help and avoiding lending money to fund gambling.

Protecting young people and vulnerable people

Gambling is only for people who meet the applicable minimum age requirements. Do not allow children or other unauthorised people to access your account, payment methods or gambling devices. Keep passwords private, use available security settings and log out when you finish. If you believe a minor or vulnerable person has accessed an account, stop using the account and contact the service through the available support channel.