Responsible Gaming

Gambling can be an enjoyable leisure activity when it is approached with realistic expectations and kept within a personal budget. There is no guaranteed way to win, and past results do not determine future outcomes. Every game has its own rules and risks, and losses can occur quickly. You should only gamble with money you can afford to lose after essential living costs and other financial commitments have been paid.

Before you begin, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat this amount as the cost of entertainment rather than an investment. Once your chosen limit has been reached, stop playing. Do not increase your budget simply because you have lost money or because you believe a win is due. A previous result does not make a future result more or less likely.

Practical habits for safer play

• Set a spending limit before gambling and avoid changing it during a session.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the screen.
• Keep gambling separate from household bills, rent, loan repayments and savings.
• Never borrow money, use essential funds or sell possessions to fund gambling.
• Do not gamble when you are upset, stressed, tired or under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Avoid chasing losses by increasing stakes or continuing for longer than planned.
• Keep gambling private from children and do not allow anyone under the legal age to access your account.
• Review your gambling from time to time and be honest about its effect on your finances, relationships and wellbeing.

Only people who meet the minimum legal age and other legal requirements in their location may gamble. You are responsible for checking that online gambling is lawful where you are located and for following the rules that apply to you. If you are under the legal age, do not create an account, use another person’s account or attempt to gamble.

Problem gambling can develop gradually. It may begin with spending a little more time or money than intended and become more difficult to control over time. You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help. Early support can make it easier to protect your finances, relationships, work and wellbeing.

Possible warning signs

• Gambling for longer than planned or finding it difficult to stop.
• Increasing the amount or frequency of gambling to achieve the same excitement.
• Chasing losses or gambling to recover money that has already been lost.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when trying to reduce or stop gambling.
• Using money set aside for food, rent, bills, education or other important needs.
• Borrowing money, selling belongings or using credit to continue gambling.
• Keeping gambling secret from family, friends or people who may be concerned.
• Missing work, study, appointments or social activities because of gambling.
• Arguing with people close to you about gambling or withdrawing from relationships.
• Feeling guilty, ashamed, hopeless or distressed after gambling.
• Trying to stop several times without being able to maintain the decision.
• Believing that a win is necessary to fix financial or personal problems.

One sign does not automatically mean that someone has a gambling disorder, but several signs may indicate that support is needed. If gambling is affecting your mood, finances, health or relationships, consider stopping immediately and speaking with someone you trust. A qualified professional can help you understand what is happening and discuss practical next steps without judgement.

You can also support another person by listening calmly, avoiding blame and encouraging them to seek professional assistance. Do not lend money to cover gambling losses or agree to keep serious financial difficulties secret. If you believe someone is at immediate risk of harm, contact the appropriate emergency or crisis service in your location.