Responsible Gaming

Online gambling involves financial risk, and there is no guaranteed way to predict a winning outcome. Games are based on chance or other factors that cannot be controlled by a player. Previous results do not determine future results, and a loss cannot be recovered by continuing to gamble. No betting system, strategy or tip can remove the risk of losing money.

Before you play, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat that amount as an entertainment cost rather than an investment. Only gamble with money that you can afford to lose after essential expenses, savings and other financial commitments have been covered. Never use borrowed money, credit intended for important expenses or funds needed for rent, bills or daily living.

A safer approach also means making decisions before you start. Avoid increasing your stakes because you are trying to win back losses, and do not gamble when you are angry, upset, tired or under the influence of alcohol or other substances. Regular breaks can help you maintain perspective and notice whether your behaviour is changing.

• Set a spending limit before each gambling session.
• Set a time limit and stop when it has been reached.
• Keep gambling separate from essential household spending.
• Take regular breaks away from your device.
• Do not chase losses or increase stakes to recover money.
• Remember that gambling outcomes are uncertain and cannot be controlled.

Gambling harm can develop gradually, and it may affect finances, relationships, work, study, health and emotional wellbeing. It is not necessary to wait until a serious problem develops before seeking help. Speaking with someone early can make it easier to understand what is happening and decide what support may be suitable.

You may wish to pause gambling and seek support if you notice that you are spending more time or money than planned, hiding your gambling, feeling unable to stop, or thinking about gambling throughout the day. Other warning signs include borrowing money, selling possessions, missing payments, neglecting responsibilities or continuing to gamble after repeated losses.

• You feel restless or irritable when trying to cut down or stop.
• You gamble to escape stress, sadness, loneliness or other difficult feelings.
• You keep increasing the amount you spend to achieve the same excitement.
• You chase losses by returning soon after a loss to try to win it back.
• You lie to family, friends or colleagues about your gambling.
• Gambling is affecting your sleep, relationships, work, study or financial security.
• You have considered using money set aside for essentials or dependants.

These signs do not mean you should feel ashamed or judged. Gambling harm is a health and wellbeing issue, and support is available. If gambling has caused serious financial or emotional distress, consider speaking with a qualified counsellor, financial counsellor, healthcare professional or a recognised Australian gambling support service.

Gambling is intended only for people who meet the applicable legal age requirements. Minors must not create, access or use a gambling account. Do not share your account, login details, payment methods or device access with another person, particularly anyone under the legal gambling age.

Parents, guardians and carers can take practical steps to reduce the chance of underage access. Keep account credentials private, use device security settings, supervise shared devices and consider suitable filtering or blocking tools. If you believe a minor has accessed an account or gambling service, stop the activity and raise the matter through the available support channel.

People who are experiencing financial stress, mental health difficulties, substance use issues or other vulnerabilities may be at greater risk of gambling harm. Gambling should not be used as a response to these challenges. Consider taking a complete break and speaking with an appropriate support professional instead.

• Keep your username, password and verification information private.
• Do not allow another person to gamble through your account.
• Use available device, banking and account restrictions where suitable.
• Monitor shared devices and payment methods.
• Report suspected underage access or unauthorised account activity promptly.

By making a plan, using available controls and asking for help early, you can reduce the risk of gambling harm. If gambling no longer feels like entertainment, stop playing and seek support.