Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment

Gambling can be enjoyable when it remains one of several leisure activities and is kept within an affordable budget. Before you play, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Regard that amount as the cost of entertainment, in the same way you would budget for dining out, streaming services or other recreational activities. Once the amount has been spent, do not add more money simply to continue playing.

There is no guaranteed way to win at casino games. Game outcomes are uncertain, and previous results do not determine what will happen next. A win does not mean that another win is due, while a loss does not create an obligation or opportunity to keep playing until the money is recovered. Chasing losses can quickly increase the amount spent and may make it harder to make clear decisions.

Set a personal plan before opening a game or making a deposit. Your plan can include a maximum spending amount, a session length and a point at which you will stop, whether you are winning or losing. Avoid gambling when you are upset, tired, under the influence of alcohol or other substances, or trying to deal with financial pressure. Strong emotions can affect judgement and make it more difficult to follow a budget.

Practical habits for safer play

• Use only money that is available after essential costs such as rent, mortgage payments, food, bills and other commitments.
• Keep gambling separate from money needed for everyday living, savings, debt repayments or emergencies.
• Take regular breaks and avoid playing for longer than you originally planned.
• Do not borrow money, use credit intended for essential expenses or sell possessions to fund gambling.
• Avoid increasing stakes in an attempt to recover losses.
• Keep a record of deposits, withdrawals, time spent and results so your play remains visible.
• Talk openly with someone you trust if you feel your gambling is becoming difficult to manage.

Responsible gambling is also about protecting your personal information and account. Use a private device where possible, keep login details secure and do not allow another person to use your account. If you share financial arrangements with a partner or family member, consider discussing any gambling budget before you play.

Recognise the warning signs

Gambling can become harmful gradually. Some people notice a change in their behaviour before they recognise the effect on their finances or relationships. Consider your recent habits honestly and avoid judging yourself. Recognising a concern early gives you more options to respond.

• Spending more time or money gambling than you intended.
• Thinking about gambling throughout the day or finding it difficult to concentrate on other activities.
• Increasing the amount or frequency of gambling to experience the same excitement.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when trying to stop or reduce gambling.
• Returning to gambling to try to win back money that has been lost.
• Hiding gambling activity, deposits, withdrawals or losses from family, friends or colleagues.
• Borrowing money, missing payments or using funds set aside for necessities.
• Gambling to escape stress, loneliness, sadness, anger or other difficult feelings.
• Arguing with people close to you because of gambling or withdrawing from normal activities.
• Missing work, study, family responsibilities or appointments because of gambling.
• Feeling regret, shame or distress after gambling but continuing to play.
• Trying to stop several times without being able to maintain a break.

One warning sign does not define your situation, but several signs may indicate that gambling is no longer simply entertainment. Take action if your gambling is affecting your budget, wellbeing, relationships, work or study. Start by stopping play, avoiding further deposits and telling someone you trust what is happening. A clear and honest conversation can make it easier to create a plan.

When to seek support

Support is available from gambling counselling and community services in Australia. A qualified counsellor can help you understand your gambling, prepare a plan to reduce or stop, manage urges and address related financial or emotional issues. You can also speak with a general practitioner or another health professional if gambling is affecting your sleep, mood, stress levels or relationships.

If you are supporting someone else, focus on the behaviour and its impact rather than blame. Encourage the person to speak with a professional, offer practical help with finding support and protect shared finances where appropriate. You should also seek support for yourself, because another person’s gambling can affect your own wellbeing and financial security.

If you feel unsafe, are experiencing a serious mental health crisis or believe there is an immediate risk of harm, contact emergency services or an appropriate crisis service in your area. Gambling support can help with gambling-related concerns, but urgent safety issues should be treated as an immediate priority.