Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Games are based on chance or other outcomes that cannot be predicted with certainty. A winning result does not mean that another win is more likely, and a losing result does not mean that a win is due. Each wager is a separate event.

Only gamble with money you can comfortably afford to lose after your essential living costs have been paid. Gambling should never be funded with money set aside for rent, mortgage payments, bills, food, education, medical needs or other important commitments. It should also not be treated as an investment, a source of income or a solution to financial problems.

Before you play

• Set a spending limit before you start and keep to it.
• Decide how long you intend to play and take regular breaks.
• Treat losses as the cost of entertainment rather than an amount you must recover.
• Do not borrow money, sell belongings or use credit to gamble.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, tired, stressed or affected by alcohol or other substances.
• Make sure you meet the minimum legal age and any other requirements that apply where you live.
• Keep your gambling separate from essential household spending and financial commitments.

For players in Australia, online gambling is subject to legal and consumer protection requirements. You are responsible for complying with the laws that apply to you, including age and location requirements. If you are unsure whether you can legally use a gambling service, obtain independent advice before participating.

Recognise when gambling may be a problem

Problem gambling can affect people from all backgrounds. It may begin gradually, and a person may not recognise the change until gambling has affected their finances, relationships, work, study, health or general wellbeing. You do not need to wait for a serious loss or crisis before taking action.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you intended.
• Repeatedly trying to win back money that has been lost.
• Increasing the amount of a wager to achieve the same excitement.
• Feeling restless, irritable or uncomfortable when trying to stop.
• Thinking about gambling throughout the day or allowing it to interfere with other activities.
• Hiding gambling activity, losses or transactions from family, friends or other people.
• Borrowing money, using credit or selling possessions to continue gambling.
• Missing work, study, appointments or social commitments because of gambling.
• Arguing with people close to you about gambling or its financial effects.
• Feeling guilt, anxiety, low mood or stress after playing, while continuing to gamble.
• Using gambling to escape personal problems or difficult emotions.
• Neglecting sleep, health, responsibilities or relationships because of gambling.

If any of these signs sound familiar, stop gambling and consider taking a break or requesting account restrictions. Do not try to solve gambling-related financial problems by gambling more. Speak honestly with someone you trust and consider obtaining professional support. A qualified counsellor, healthcare professional or financial counsellor can help you understand your options without judgement.

It can also help to involve a trusted person in your plan. You may ask them to help monitor spending, support a break from gambling or assist with practical steps such as reviewing bills and payment arrangements. If gambling is causing immediate financial, emotional or personal danger, seek urgent assistance from appropriate emergency or health services in your area.