Responsible Gaming

Gambling outcomes are determined by chance, and no strategy can guarantee a win. Every wager carries a risk of loss. Previous results do not influence future results, and a game that has not produced a win is not more likely to win next time. Treat all money used for gambling as entertainment spending rather than as an investment or source of income.

Before you play, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Make your decisions in advance and follow them during your session. Avoid increasing your spending because of excitement, frustration or the desire to recover losses. Chasing losses can lead to larger bets, longer sessions and financial difficulty.

• Only gamble with money you can afford to lose after essential living costs have been paid.
• Set a spending limit and a time limit before starting a session.
• Take regular breaks and avoid playing when tired, upset, stressed or under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Keep gambling separate from household bills, rent, mortgage payments, savings and credit commitments.
• Never borrow money, sell belongings or use credit to continue gambling.
• Do not rely on gambling to manage financial, personal or emotional problems.
• Remember that stopping after a loss is a responsible decision, not a failure.

It can help to keep a clear record of gambling activity. Reviewing deposits, withdrawals, time spent playing and overall results may provide a more accurate picture than relying on memory. Consider discussing your limits with someone you trust so that you have additional accountability. A trusted person may also help you notice changes in your behaviour that are difficult to recognise yourself.

Do not gamble when you are trying to solve an urgent financial problem or when you are feeling distressed. Gambling is not a reliable way to earn income, pay debts or improve your financial position. If you are concerned about money, consider speaking with an independent financial counsellor instead.

Problem gambling can develop gradually, and people may not always recognise the change themselves. Warning signs can include spending more time or money gambling than intended, thinking about gambling throughout the day or feeling restless when trying to stop. A person may also minimise losses, hide gambling from family or friends, or feel the need to gamble with larger amounts to experience the same excitement.

• Repeatedly trying and failing to cut back or stop.
• Chasing losses or gambling to recover money that has already been lost.
• Missing work, study, family commitments or appointments because of gambling.
• Using money intended for bills, food, rent or other essential expenses.
• Borrowing money or asking others for financial help because of gambling.
• Feeling anxious, irritable, guilty, ashamed or distressed after gambling.
• Arguing with family, friends or colleagues about gambling.
• Keeping gambling activity, deposits or losses secret.
• Neglecting sleep, health, relationships or other interests.
• Gambling to escape sadness, stress, loneliness or other difficult feelings.

One warning sign may be enough to justify taking a break and reviewing your gambling. Several signs may indicate that additional support is needed. You do not need to wait until a serious financial or personal crisis occurs before asking for help. Speaking openly with a trusted person, a qualified counsellor or an independent support service can be an important first step.

If you are concerned about someone else

If a friend, partner or family member may be experiencing gambling harm, choose a calm time to raise the subject. Focus on what you have observed and how you are concerned about their wellbeing, rather than making accusations. Encourage them to seek professional support and offer practical help, while remembering that you cannot control another person's decisions. Protect shared finances where appropriate and seek support for yourself as well.

Avoid paying gambling debts or providing money that could be used for further gambling without obtaining appropriate advice. If finances are shared, consider sensible safeguards such as reviewing household budgets, separating essential funds and discussing access to payment methods. These steps should be taken carefully and respectfully.