Play within your limits
Gambling should be entertainment, not a way to make money or to solve financial problems. Before you play, decide on a fixed amount you can afford to lose and a time limit, and stop when you reach either one. Never chase losses, and never borrow money to gamble.
Signs worth taking seriously
- Spending more than you planned, or more often than you planned.
- Hiding your gambling from people close to you.
- Gambling to escape stress, boredom or low mood.
- Borrowing money, selling things or missing bills to keep playing.
- Feeling restless or irritable when you try to stop.
If any of these sound familiar, that is a good reason to talk to someone – early, and without judgement.
Tools that help
- Deposit and loss limits. Set them with the operator before you play, not after a bad session.
- Time reminders. Use session timers and alarms.
- Self-exclusion. Licensed Australian wagering operators must offer self-exclusion through BetStop at betstop.gov.au. BetStop covers licensed wagering services; it does not block unlicensed offshore casino or pokies sites.
- Blocking software. Gambling-blocking tools and bank card blocks can make access harder.
Free, confidential help
- Gambling Help Online: 1800 858 858, 24 hours, 7 days – gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 – lifeline.org.au
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 – beyondblue.org.au
- In an emergency call 000.
More detail on services, self-exclusion and money problems is on our gambling support page for Australia.
For family and friends
If you are worried about someone else, you can call the same helplines for guidance. Support services speak with family members and friends as well as with players.
Under 18
Gambling is for adults only. This site is intended for readers aged 18 and over.