Responsible Gaming

Keep gambling enjoyable

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Casino games are based on chance, and outcomes from previous games do not influence future results. A winning session does not mean that another win is due, and a loss cannot be recovered by continuing to play. Treat every wager as entertainment spending and only use money that you can comfortably afford to lose.

Before you begin, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Consider these amounts a cost of entertainment rather than an investment. Once your limit has been reached, stop playing. Do not increase your budget because you are losing, and avoid using money intended for rent, bills, food, savings, debt repayments or other essential expenses.

Practical habits for safer play

• Set a spending limit before you play and stick to it.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the game.
• Keep a record of your deposits, wagers and withdrawals so you understand your spending.
• Never chase losses or borrow money to gamble.
• Do not gamble when you are upset, stressed, tired or under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Do not view gambling as a source of income or a solution to financial difficulties.
• Keep gambling separate from essential household spending.
• Talk with someone you trust about your gambling choices when appropriate.

You may also find it useful to set personal rules, such as not playing late at night, not gambling during work or study hours, and taking a break after a significant win or loss. These habits can help you remain aware of your behaviour and make decisions with a clear mind.

Recognising signs of harm

Gambling can become harmful when it affects your finances, relationships, work, study, health or general wellbeing. Sometimes the change happens gradually, which makes it important to pay attention to patterns rather than a single session. You do not need to wait for a serious problem before asking for help.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you planned.
• Trying to win back money after a loss.
• Increasing your bets to experience the same level of excitement.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when you cannot gamble.
• Hiding or minimising your gambling from family, friends or other people.
• Borrowing money, selling possessions or using credit to continue playing.
• Missing bills, work, study, appointments or social commitments because of gambling.
• Arguing with people close to you about gambling.
• Feeling guilty, ashamed, hopeless or distressed after playing.
• Attempting to cut back or stop but finding that you cannot.

If any of these signs feel familiar, stop and consider taking a break. Speak openly with a trusted person and seek help from an appropriately qualified support service. Professional support can help you understand your gambling, manage urges, plan financial steps and address related stress or emotional concerns. Asking for help is a practical step and does not require you to handle the situation alone.

If gambling has created urgent financial or emotional distress, prioritise your immediate safety. Contact an appropriate emergency or crisis service in your area if you are at risk of harm. If you are worried about someone else, encourage them to seek support without judging or lending money to fund further gambling.