Responsible Gaming

Gambling involves risk and outcomes are never guaranteed. Games are based on chance or other uncertain factors, so no strategy can ensure a win. Past results do not predict future results, and a losing streak does not make a win more likely. Treat every wager as money spent on entertainment rather than as an investment, source of income or way to recover losses.

Before you play, consider whether gambling fits your personal and financial circumstances. Only use money you can afford to lose after essential expenses, bills and other commitments have been covered. Never use borrowed money, rent money, household funds or money set aside for necessities to gamble. If you are feeling distressed, angry, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or under pressure to win, it is safer not to play.

Practical habits for safer play

• Set a spending limit before you begin and do not increase it during a session.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the screen.
• Keep gambling separate from other entertainment and financial activities.
• Avoid chasing losses or increasing stakes to try to win back money.
• Do not gamble when tired, upset, stressed or affected by alcohol or other substances.
• Keep your account details private and do not allow another person to gamble through your account.
• Review your gambling regularly and stop if it is no longer enjoyable.

A win does not mean you need to continue playing, and a loss does not need to be followed by another wager. Ending a session at the time you planned is one of the simplest ways to maintain control.

Problem gambling can affect people from every background and may develop gradually. It can involve losing control over time or money spent, even when a person understands that gambling is causing harm. You may wish to pause and seek support if gambling is affecting your relationships, work, study, sleep, mood or financial security.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you planned.
• Chasing losses or feeling an urgent need to win money back.
• Borrowing money, selling possessions or using credit to gamble.
• Hiding gambling activity, losses or account information from family or friends.
• Feeling restless, anxious, irritable or low when you try to stop.
• Missing work, study, household responsibilities or social commitments.
• Gambling to escape stress, loneliness, sadness or other difficult feelings.
• Continuing to gamble after deciding to stop or reduce your activity.
• Experiencing arguments, debt or other problems because of gambling.

One or more of these signs may indicate that it is time to stop and seek assistance. You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help. Speaking openly with someone you trust can be a useful first step. A qualified gambling counsellor or health professional can help you understand your behaviour, make a plan and address related financial or emotional concerns.

If gambling has caused financial stress, avoid taking further risks to solve the problem. Consider contacting a recognised financial counsellor and review access to credit, banking controls and household support. If you feel unsafe or are experiencing an immediate mental health crisis, contact local emergency services or an appropriate crisis support service in Australia.