Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to predict or control the result of a game. Outcomes are determined by the relevant game mechanics, so past results do not make a future win more likely. You should only gamble with money 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 that amount as an entertainment expense rather than an investment. If your planned budget is gone, stop playing instead of adding more funds. Do not use gambling to pay bills, cover debts, replace income or try to improve your financial position.

Responsible gambling also means making decisions when you are in a clear state of mind. Avoid gambling when you are upset, under the influence of alcohol or other substances, tired, or trying to escape personal difficulties. Taking a pause can help you assess whether gambling remains a suitable activity for you.

• Set a spending amount before you begin and keep to it.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks from play.
• Keep gambling separate from money needed for rent, food, bills, savings and other priorities.
• Never chase losses by increasing your bets or depositing more than planned.
• Do not borrow money, sell belongings or use credit to continue gambling.
• Remember that wins are not guaranteed and losses can occur quickly.
• Only gamble when you are of legal age and permitted to do so in your location.

If you are in Australia, legal requirements and support arrangements may differ between states and territories. You are responsible for understanding the rules that apply to you and for using gambling services only where they are permitted.

Recognising gambling harm

Gambling harm can develop gradually. It may affect your finances, relationships, work, study, sleep, mood and general wellbeing. A person does not need to gamble every day or lose a large amount of money for gambling to become a problem. Changes in your behaviour, secrecy or increasing reliance on gambling can be important warning signs.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you intended.
• Trying to win back losses by gambling more often or taking greater risks.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when you try to stop.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or finding it difficult to focus on other activities.
• Hiding your gambling, deposits, losses or account activity from family and friends.
• Borrowing money, using credit or selling possessions to fund gambling.
• Missing work, study, family activities or other responsibilities because of gambling.
• Gambling to cope with stress, loneliness, sadness, anger or other difficult feelings.
• Feeling guilty, ashamed or distressed after gambling, but continuing to play.
• Experiencing conflict with people close to you because of gambling.

If any of these signs apply to you, consider stopping play and seeking support early. You do not need to wait for a crisis, a major loss or pressure from someone else before asking for help. Speaking with a trusted person can make it easier to be honest about what is happening and to create a plan.

If you are concerned about another person's gambling, approach the subject calmly and without judgement. Focus on the behaviour you have noticed and how it is affecting them or others. You cannot control another person's choices, but you can encourage them to access professional support and protect shared finances where appropriate.