Responsible Gaming

Casino games are based on chance, and outcomes cannot be predicted or controlled. There is no guaranteed strategy, system or pattern that can ensure a win. Previous results do not change the chances of future results, and a losing run does not mean that a win is due. Treat every wager as entertainment spending and only use money that you can afford to lose.

Gambling should never be considered an income source, an investment or a solution to debt. Winnings are not guaranteed, and losses can occur quickly. Before you start, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Once that amount or period has been reached, stop playing. Do not increase your budget to recover losses, and do not borrow money to gamble.

Keep gambling separate from everyday responsibilities

Choose times to play when you are not working, studying, caring for someone or dealing with important responsibilities. Avoid gambling when you are upset, tired, stressed, under the influence of alcohol or affected by medication or other substances. These situations can make it harder to make careful decisions. Take regular breaks, keep track of how long you have been playing and make sure gambling does not replace sleep, exercise, social activities or time with family and friends.

• Set a spending limit before you begin and treat it as a firm limit.
• Set a time limit and stop when that time has passed.
• Never chase losses by placing larger or more frequent wagers.
• Do not use rent, bills, savings, credit, borrowed money or money needed for essentials.
• Avoid gambling when you are distressed, angry, tired or under the influence.
• Keep gambling private only when it is a normal personal choice, not to hide concerning behaviour from people who support you.

Problem gambling can affect anyone. It is not defined only by the size of a loss or by how often a person plays. The important question is whether gambling is causing harm or becoming difficult to control. Early action can help prevent financial, emotional, relationship and health problems from becoming more serious.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you planned.
• Trying to win back losses or feeling pressure to keep playing after losing.
• Increasing wagers or deposits to get the same excitement.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when attempting to cut back.
• Thinking about gambling during work, study, family time or other activities.
• Hiding gambling, losses, deposits or account activity from others.
• Borrowing money, selling possessions or missing payments because of gambling.
• Using gambling to escape stress, sadness, loneliness or other difficult feelings.
• Arguing with family or friends about gambling or withdrawing from relationships.
• Feeling regret, shame or distress after playing but continuing to gamble.
• Neglecting sleep, health, work, study or other responsibilities.
• Attempting to stop or cut down several times without being able to do so.

You do not need to wait until every warning sign applies before asking for help. If you are concerned about your own gambling, stop playing and speak with a qualified counsellor, financial counsellor, health professional or trusted person. If someone close to you is affected, you can also seek advice about how to set boundaries and offer support without taking responsibility for their gambling.

Independent support is available to people in Australia through gambling-help services, community organisations, health professionals and financial counselling services. Support may be available by phone, online or in person, depending on your location and needs. Search for a recognised gambling-support service in your state or territory, or ask a healthcare professional for a suitable referral. If gambling has contributed to immediate financial, emotional or personal danger, seek urgent help from an appropriate emergency or crisis service.