Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment, not income

Gambling outcomes are determined by chance, and there is no guaranteed strategy for winning. A win is never certain, and previous results do not predict future results. Every bet carries a risk of loss. You should never gamble with money needed for rent, bills, food, savings, debt repayments or other essential commitments.

Set a gambling budget before you begin and regard that budget as the cost of entertainment. Once the budget has been used, stop playing. Do not increase your stake because you have lost, and do not continue playing to try to recover losses. Chasing losses can lead to larger losses and may make it harder to stay in control.

• Only gamble with money you can comfortably afford to lose.
• Decide how much time and money you will spend before playing.
• Keep gambling separate from everyday spending and essential bills.
• Take regular breaks and avoid playing when tired, upset, stressed or under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Never borrow money, use credit intended for necessities or sell possessions to fund gambling.
• Accept that losses are part of gambling and cannot be recovered by continuing to play.

It can also help to keep a record of deposits, wagers, wins and losses. A clear record may give you a more realistic view of your gambling activity and help you identify when your play is increasing. Consider discussing your limits with someone you trust so that you have additional support in maintaining them.

Recognising when gambling may be a problem

Problem gambling can affect people in different ways. It is not defined only by the amount of money lost. Gambling may be becoming harmful when it affects your mood, relationships, work, study, health or financial security. You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help.

Consider taking a break and speaking with a qualified support service if you recognise any of the following signs:

• You spend more time or money gambling than you planned.
• You think about gambling frequently or feel restless when you try to stop.
• You chase losses or gamble with money set aside for necessities.
• You hide or minimise your gambling from family, friends or other people.
• You borrow money, use credit or sell belongings to continue gambling.
• You feel anxious, guilty, angry or low because of your gambling.
• Gambling causes conflict with a partner, family member, friend, employer or colleague.
• You miss work, study, appointments or other responsibilities because of gambling.
• You have tried to stop or cut back but have not been able to do so.
• You gamble to escape stress, loneliness, sadness or other difficult feelings.

A trusted friend or family member may notice changes before you do. If someone raises a concern, try to listen without becoming defensive. Talking openly can make it easier to review your gambling and decide what action to take. You can also seek confidential advice directly, even if you are unsure whether your gambling is a problem.

Support is available

In Australia, free or low-cost gambling support may be available through specialist counselling services, community health providers and state or territory support programs. These services can help with practical planning, emotional support, financial concerns and conversations with family. Search for a recognised Australian gambling support service in your state or territory, or speak with your doctor or another qualified health professional.

If gambling has contributed to immediate financial difficulty, consider speaking with a financial counsellor. If you feel unsafe, have thoughts of self-harm or believe you may harm someone else, stop gambling and seek urgent assistance through local emergency services or a crisis support service. Your immediate safety is more important than any gambling account or financial loss.