Responsible Gambling
Gambling should be fun, not harmful. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. You are not alone.
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Free, confidential support available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Gambling problems can affect anyone. Recognising the warning signs early can help prevent serious harm.
Spending More Time Gambling
Gambling sessions becoming longer and more frequent, neglecting other activities.
Chasing Losses
Trying to win back money that's been lost by gambling more.
Hiding Gambling
Lying to family or friends about gambling habits or hiding financial problems.
Mood Changes
Feeling anxious, depressed, or irritable when not gambling or when trying to stop.
Relationship Problems
Arguments with family or friends about gambling, or withdrawing from relationships.
Financial Stress
Borrowing money, selling possessions, or struggling to pay bills due to gambling.
Australian Support Services
Free, confidential help is available across Australia. These services are staffed by trained counsellors who understand gambling problems.
Gambling Help Online
National 24/7 Support Line
Free, confidential counselling available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Phone, online chat, and email support.
Gamblers Anonymous
Peer Support Groups
Free peer support groups where people with gambling problems share experiences and support each other's recovery.
BetStop
National Self-Exclusion Register
Australia's national self-exclusion register. Register to block yourself from all licensed Australian online gambling sites.
Financial Counselling
Free Financial Help
Free financial counselling for people experiencing gambling-related financial difficulties.
Tips for Safe Gambling
Set a Budget and Stick to It
Decide how much you can afford to lose before you start. Never gamble with money you need for bills, rent, or essentials.
Set Time Limits
Use session reminders and take regular breaks. It's easy to lose track of time when gambling.
Never Chase Losses
If you lose, accept it and walk away. Trying to win back losses usually leads to bigger losses.
Don't Gamble When Emotional
Avoid gambling when you're stressed, depressed, or upset. Emotional gambling leads to poor decisions.
Use Responsible Gambling Tools
Take advantage of deposit limits, loss limits, session time reminders, and self-exclusion options offered by casinos.
Keep Gambling Fun
Gambling should be entertainment, not a way to make money. If it stops being fun, it's time to stop.
Helping Someone You Care About
If someone close to you has a gambling problem, you can play an important role in their recovery.
What You Can Do
- Learn about problem gambling and available support
- Express concern without judgment or criticism
- Encourage them to seek professional help
- Seek support for yourself - you don't have to cope alone
What to Avoid
- Don't pay off their gambling debts
- Don't cover up or make excuses for their behaviour
- Don't blame yourself for their gambling