Responsible Gaming

Gamble responsibly

Responsible gaming means making informed decisions, understanding the risks and keeping gambling within limits that are affordable for you. Before you play, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat that amount as an entertainment expense, and do not increase it because of a loss or the expectation of a future win. There is no guaranteed strategy for winning, and previous results do not determine future outcomes.

Gambling is not a suitable way to repay debts, pay bills, replace employment income or improve your financial position. Never gamble with money needed for rent, mortgage payments, utilities, food, education or other essential costs. You should also avoid gambling when you are upset, tired, under the influence of alcohol or other substances, or trying to escape personal problems. Taking a break in these circumstances can help you make clearer decisions.

Practical ways to stay in control

• Set a spending limit before you begin and do not exceed it.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the screen.
• Keep a record of deposits, bets, wins and losses so you understand your overall activity.
• Use available account controls instead of relying only on willpower.
• Do not chase losses by increasing bet sizes or playing for longer.
• Do not borrow money, sell possessions or use credit to gamble.
• Keep gambling separate from essential household and personal expenses.
• Talk openly with someone you trust if gambling is becoming difficult to manage.

Account tools and time-out options

Depending on your account and the options available in your location, you may be able to use responsible gaming controls such as deposit limits, loss limits, wagering limits, session reminders, activity statements, reality checks, time-outs or self-exclusion. These tools are designed to help you plan your play and create space between you and gambling. Read the information shown when selecting a control so you understand when it starts, what activity it covers and whether it can be changed.

A deposit limit can help restrict the amount added to an account during a selected period. A time limit or reminder can help you keep track of how long you have been playing. A time-out can pause access for a chosen period, while self-exclusion is a stronger measure intended for players who want to stop gambling for longer. The exact controls, periods and conditions may vary, and the relevant account information will explain how each option works.

Choosing a stronger restriction

If you are worried about your gambling, consider using a time-out or self-exclusion rather than simply reducing your usual activity. Do not wait until a serious problem develops. During a self-exclusion period, you should not attempt to open another account, use another person’s account or ask someone else to place bets for you. Account restrictions are intended to support your decision, but they work best when combined with practical steps such as removing gambling applications, blocking promotional messages and asking a trusted person for support.

If you would like to apply a restriction, need help understanding an account setting or believe a control has not worked as expected, use the available support or account-management options. We may need to verify account information before making changes. Restrictions may be subject to applicable requirements and the terms displayed when you request them.

Recognising signs of harm

Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, income or previous experience. It may develop gradually, and a person may not recognise the extent of the issue at first. Consider taking a break and seeking help if you notice that gambling is becoming a regular source of worry, conflict or financial pressure.

• Spending more money or time gambling than you intended.
• Trying to win back money after losing it, often called chasing losses.
• Hiding or minimising gambling activity, deposits or losses.
• Borrowing money, using credit or selling belongings to continue gambling.
• Missing work, study, family responsibilities or social activities because of gambling.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when trying to reduce or stop gambling.
• Gambling to cope with stress, loneliness, sadness or other difficult feelings.
• Arguing with family, friends or colleagues about gambling.
• Having difficulty paying ordinary expenses or meeting financial commitments.
• Returning to gambling soon after deciding to stop.

One sign does not define your situation, but several signs may indicate that additional support would be useful. You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help. Speaking with a qualified gambling counsellor, financial counsellor, health professional or trusted person can help you understand your options and make a plan.

Protecting yourself and others

Your account should be used only by you. Keep login details private and do not allow another person to gamble using your account. Parents and carers should take reasonable steps to prevent children from accessing gambling services or payment methods. Use device security, payment controls and any available blocking tools where appropriate. Gambling services are for adults who meet the legal age requirements in Australia, and anyone under 18 must not participate.

Finding help and raising concerns

If gambling is causing concern, stop playing and seek support as soon as possible. Support is available through gambling-help services, financial counselling services, mental health professionals and community organisations across Australia. These services can provide confidential information, practical guidance and assistance with making a plan to reduce or stop gambling. Support may also be available for family members and friends affected by another person’s gambling.

You can also speak with someone you trust and explain what is happening. Ask them to help you set boundaries, review finances, remove access to gambling or stay accountable while you take a break. If you are experiencing severe distress or believe that you or another person is in immediate danger, seek urgent assistance through appropriate emergency or health services.

Questions about your account

For questions about responsible gaming settings, account restrictions, self-exclusion or activity information, use the support options available on the website. Please provide accurate information so the matter can be reviewed appropriately. We may ask questions to understand the issue and may apply account measures where required by applicable rules or our terms.

If you believe a responsible gaming control, account restriction or age-related safeguard has not operated as expected, raise the concern promptly through the available support channel. Keep any relevant account messages or transaction information. We will review concerns in line with our procedures and applicable obligations. This page provides general information and does not replace professional financial, legal, medical or counselling advice.

1. Stop gambling and avoid making further deposits while you consider your next step.
2. Review your recent activity and identify any financial, time or emotional impact.
3. Apply an available limit, time-out or self-exclusion if you need immediate distance from gambling.
4. Tell a trusted person and ask for practical support.
5. Contact an appropriate Australian gambling-support or counselling service for confidential assistance.
6. Seek urgent help if gambling is connected with immediate risks to your safety or wellbeing.