Responsible Gaming

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Game outcomes are determined by chance or by the rules of the relevant game, and past results do not predict future results. You should only gamble with money you can afford to lose after essential expenses, existing commitments and savings have been considered.

Before you start, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat that amount as an entertainment expense rather than an investment. Once your budget or time limit has been reached, stop playing. Do not increase your spending to recover losses, and do not borrow money or use money intended for rent, bills, food, education or other important needs.

• Set a personal spending limit before you play and keep to it.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from gambling.
• Keep gambling separate from household expenses and savings.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, tired, stressed, intoxicated or trying to escape problems.
• Do not chase losses or assume a win is due after a series of losses.
• Never borrow money, sell possessions or use credit to continue gambling.
• Keep track of how often you play and how much you spend.
• Remember that gambling is not a reliable way to earn income.

You can use the available account tools and settings to support your limits. Depending on the service and your location, these may include deposit or spending controls, session reminders, activity information, temporary breaks and account closure or self-exclusion options. Read the relevant information carefully and choose settings that reflect your personal circumstances.

If you set a limit, take a break or request self-exclusion, do not create another account or use another person’s account to continue gambling. Account access should always be personal. You should also protect your login details and avoid allowing anyone else to use your account.

Taking a break can help you understand your gambling and decide what changes may be appropriate. You can stop playing for a short period, reduce access to gambling services, review your account activity or choose a longer period of self-exclusion. A break is most effective when it is combined with practical support, such as speaking with a trusted person or a qualified counsellor.

Set limits before playing

Use any available account controls to set limits that suit your budget. Consider limits on deposits, spending, losses, session length or access. A limit should be realistic, and you should not change it impulsively while you are playing. If a requested reduction or restriction has an applicable waiting period, continue to follow the lower limit or restriction during that period.

Use a time-out or self-exclusion

A temporary time-out can provide space to reassess your gambling. Self-exclusion is a stronger option that restricts access for a selected period or until further steps are completed. If you believe you may be at risk of gambling harm, self-exclusion can be an important part of a broader support plan. Review the applicable account instructions for how to request a break or close your account.

Make gambling harder to access

• Remove saved payment methods where possible.
• Ask your bank or financial institution whether gambling blocks or other controls are available.
• Use device or website tools that restrict access to gambling services.
• Tell a trusted person about your decision to take a break.
• Avoid carrying unnecessary funds or using easy access to credit.
• Replace gambling time with activities that support your health and relationships.

Account controls are not a substitute for professional help. If gambling is affecting your safety, mental health or ability to meet essential needs, contact a qualified support service promptly. If you are in immediate danger or thinking about harming yourself, contact emergency services or a crisis service in Australia.