Responsible Gaming

Responsible gambling means staying in control of how, when and why you play. Before you begin, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat that amount as an entertainment cost, similar to any other leisure activity, and never spend more than you can afford to lose. Once your personal limit has been reached, stop playing rather than trying to recover losses.

Gambling outcomes are based on chance. Previous results do not make a future result more likely, and no strategy can guarantee a win. A losing session is not a reason to increase your stake, borrow money or continue for longer. Avoid gambling when you are upset, tired, under the influence of alcohol or other substances, or trying to escape personal problems. Your judgement may be affected in these situations.

Keep gambling separate from essential spending. Rent, mortgage payments, household bills, food, medical costs, savings and debt repayments should always come first. Do not use credit, loans or money intended for another person to gamble. It can also help to keep a record of deposits, withdrawals, time spent playing and your overall results. A clear record may make it easier to identify changes in your behaviour.

Practical ways to stay in control

• Set a gambling budget before you play and do not increase it during a session.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from your device.
• Do not chase losses or gamble with the intention of winning back money.
• Avoid gambling when you are stressed, distressed, angry or affected by alcohol or other substances.
• Keep your gambling private from no one who needs to understand your spending, particularly a partner or trusted family member.
• Balance gambling with work, study, relationships, exercise and other interests.
• Review your gambling activity regularly, even when you believe it is under control.

Gambling harm can develop gradually, and it may not always be obvious at first. The important question is not only how much you gamble, but whether gambling is affecting your choices, responsibilities, relationships, health or financial position. You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help. Speaking with someone early can make it easier to regain control.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you intended.
• Increasing your stakes to achieve the same excitement or to recover losses.
• Thinking about gambling throughout the day or finding it difficult to concentrate on other activities.
• Feeling restless, irritable or uncomfortable when you try to stop.
• Hiding gambling activity, deposits, losses or debts from family, friends or colleagues.
• Borrowing money, selling possessions or using money for bills to continue gambling.
• Missing work, study, appointments or family commitments because of gambling.
• Arguing with people close to you about gambling or withdrawing from relationships.
• Feeling anxious, depressed, ashamed or hopeless after gambling.
• Trying to stop or cut back several times without being able to do so.

If any of these signs feel familiar, stop and consider taking a break immediately. Speak honestly with someone you trust and contact a qualified gambling support service in your state or territory. In Australia, free or low-cost counselling and information may be available through recognised gambling-help organisations and local health services. A counsellor can help you understand your behaviour, make a plan and consider support for financial or relationship concerns.

You can also speak with your general practitioner or another healthcare professional if gambling is affecting your mental or physical health. If you feel at immediate risk of harming yourself or someone else, contact emergency services or an urgent crisis support service in your area. Gambling support is available for people who gamble and for family members, friends and others affected by someone else’s gambling.

Support for family and friends

Gambling harm can affect a household even when only one person is gambling. If you are concerned about someone else, choose a calm time to talk, describe the behaviour you have noticed and explain how it is affecting you. Avoid threats, blame or arguments about individual bets. Encourage the person to seek professional support, but remember that you are not responsible for controlling another adult’s gambling. Protect your own finances and wellbeing, and seek advice for yourself if needed.