Responsible gambling

Gambling should be treated as paid entertainment, not as a way to make income or recover previous losses. Set limits before playing and stop when gambling is no longer enjoyable or affordable.

Set clear limits

• Choose a spending limit before a session starts.
• Use a time limit and take regular breaks.
• Never use money required for rent, bills, food or other essentials.
• Avoid chasing losses or increasing stakes to recover money.
• Review deposit and transaction history regularly.

Warning signs

Take a break if gambling starts affecting sleep, work, relationships, finances or mood. Hiding gambling activity, borrowing money to play or feeling pressure to recover losses are strong reasons to stop and seek support.

Account tools

Where available, use deposit limits, session reminders, cooling-off periods and self-exclusion controls. These tools are most useful when configured before gambling becomes difficult to control.

Support in Australia

Gambling Help Online provides confidential support and information. BetStop provides a national self-exclusion service for licensed Australian online and telephone wagering providers. Adults can also speak with a financial counsellor when gambling is affecting household finances.