Responsible Gaming

Keep gambling in perspective

For many people, gambling is an occasional leisure activity. However, gambling can become difficult to control for some players, particularly when it is used to manage stress, financial pressure, loneliness or other personal concerns. No gambling outcome is guaranteed, and past results do not predict future results. Games are based on chance or agreed rules, so losses can occur.

A responsible approach means making decisions before you play and sticking to them. Set a budget that comes from money available for entertainment, rather than money needed for rent, bills, food, savings, debts or other essential expenses. Keep gambling separate from your everyday spending and avoid using borrowed money or credit to continue playing.

• Only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
• Decide in advance how long you will play and take regular breaks.
• Do not chase losses or increase your stakes to try to recover money.
• Never gamble when you are upset, tired, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or feeling pressured.
• Treat wins as chance outcomes, not as income or a reliable source of money.
• Do not borrow money, sell belongings or use essential funds for gambling.
• Keep track of your deposits, withdrawals, time spent and overall results.
• Remember that you can stop playing at any time.

Gambling should not interfere with your relationships, work, study, health or other responsibilities. If it is taking more time or money than you intended, this may be a sign that you should take a break and seek advice.

Recognise signs of concern

It can be difficult to notice changes in gambling behaviour, especially when they happen gradually. The following signs may suggest that gambling is becoming a problem. One sign alone does not provide a diagnosis, but several signs should be taken seriously.

• You gamble for longer or spend more than you planned.
• You think about gambling frequently or feel restless when you try to stop.
• You chase losses or believe a big win will solve financial problems.
• You hide or minimise how much time or money you spend gambling.
• You borrow money, miss bills or use savings to gamble.
• You argue with family, friends or colleagues because of gambling.
• You neglect work, study, health, sleep or other responsibilities.
• You gamble to escape difficult feelings or to feel better.
• You try to cut back but find that you cannot do so.
• You feel anxious, guilty, upset or hopeless after gambling.

If any of these signs feel familiar, stop playing and consider asking for help. Do not wait for the situation to become severe. Speaking with a trusted person or a qualified support service can help you understand what is happening and identify practical next steps. You do not need to manage the situation alone.

Protecting your account

Keep your login information private and do not allow another person to use your account. Account sharing can make it harder to monitor gambling and may create security or verification issues. If you believe someone else has accessed your account, stop using it and contact the available account support channel through the website.

Parents, carers and other adults should take reasonable steps to prevent children from accessing gambling services. Use device controls, secure passwords and payment protections where appropriate. Gambling services are intended for adults who meet the applicable age and eligibility requirements.