Responsible Gambling

Gambling is a form of entertainment reserved exclusively for adults. Every player should decide in advance how much time and money to dedicate to sessions, without using funds needed for daily expenses or financial obligations. Winnings are not guaranteed and gambling must not be considered a source of income, an investment or a method for resolving financial difficulties.

Principles for responsible gambling

Before starting a session, the following points can help keep the activity under control:

• Set a maximum budget compatible with the player’s financial situation and do not exceed it
• Decide on a precise time limit before starting and stop once it is reached
• Take regular breaks during longer sessions
• Never increase bets to recover a loss
• Do not use loans, shared cards or money belonging to other people
• Avoid gambling when tired, stressed, angry or under the influence of alcohol or other substances

Gambling does not guarantee winnings

The results of pokies and other games depend on the rules and systems built into individual titles. A previous win does not increase the probability of winning in the next session, while a series of losses does not indicate that a prize is imminent. Return-to-player values are calculated over a very large number of rounds and do not predict the individual result. Every bet therefore carries a real possibility of losing the entire amount wagered.

Signs of problematic behaviour

Gambling can become difficult to control when the time dedicated to sessions increases or when amounts exceed the limits set. Signs that should not be ignored include the following:

• Continuously attempting to recover losses by placing further bets
• Hiding gambling activity from family members or friends
• Using money intended for rent, bills or other essential expenses
• Feeling unable to stop after a losing session
• Irritability, anxiety or difficulty sleeping related to gambling outcomes
• Reduced interest in work, study or personal relationships

If one or more of these signs apply, it is advisable to pause all activity and speak with a trusted person or a professional.

Self-assessment questions

The following questions can be reviewed periodically to check whether a player’s relationship with gambling remains healthy:

• Is more money being spent than planned?
• Do thoughts about gambling recur frequently throughout the day?
• Has money been borrowed or possessions sold to fund sessions?
• Have important commitments been neglected because of gambling?
• Has inaccurate information been provided to conceal the time spent playing?

A positive answer to one or more of these questions does not represent a diagnosis, but it does indicate that it may be appropriate to pause and seek support.

Limits and breaks from gambling

Most licensed operators provide control tools that can help maintain a more balanced approach. Players can typically take the following steps directly from their account area:

• Set deposit, loss or session spending limits
• Request a temporary cooling-off period
• Apply for self-exclusion and account closure
• Register with BetStop, the national self-exclusion register for Australia

If a function is not visible, the operator’s support team can be contacted to find out what measures exist. During a break, new accounts should not be created and alternative platforms should not be sought to continue playing.

Protection of minors

Access to gambling services is forbidden to persons under the age of 18. Adults who share a device with minors should take the following precautions:

• Protect login credentials and never save passwords on shared devices
• Log out completely after every session
• Activate parental control tools on the device or browser
• Prevent access to stored payment methods

The personal details of an adult must never be used to open or fund an account intended for a minor.

Support for family members and people close to a player

Problematic behaviour can also affect partners, family members and friends. When there is concern about someone close, it helps to approach the subject calmly and focus on observed facts, avoiding accusations or threats. Money should not be lent to cover debts without addressing the root cause of the problem. The person can be encouraged to pause their activity and contact a professional support service.

When to seek help

It is appropriate to seek assistance when gambling causes debts, personal conflicts, absences from work, emotional difficulties or loss of control. Stopping early can limit financial and personal consequences. The following organisations offer free, confidential support to players in Australia:

• National Gambling Helpline: free, confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 1800 858 858
• Gambling Help Online: online counselling, live chat and email support at gamblinghelponline.org.au
• BetStop: the National Self-Exclusion Register for all Australian-licensed online and phone wagering services at betstop.gov.au
• Lifeline: 24-hour crisis support on 13 11 14 or at lifeline.org.au
• National Debt Helpline: free financial counselling for gambling-related debt on 1800 007 007 or at ndh.org.au
• Gambling Help Youthline: support for young people on 1800 262 376

Platform support does not replace the intervention of doctors, psychologists or specialist organisations. In an urgent situation, contact local health services immediately or call 000.