We write about how casino games work so you can enjoy them with your eyes open. That means being clear about one thing: gambling is an adult activity in Australia (18+), and it should stay a form of entertainment, not a way to make money or solve a money problem.
When it stops being fun
It's worth checking in with yourself now and then. Some signs that gambling may be becoming a problem:
- Betting more than you planned, or chasing losses to win them back.
- Gambling with money meant for rent, bills or groceries.
- Hiding how much you gamble from family or friends.
- Feeling anxious, irritable or low when you're not gambling.
- Borrowing money, or thinking about it, to keep playing.
None of this makes you a bad person. It's just a sign it might be time to step back and get some support.
Practical limits you can set
- Decide on a budget before you start, and treat it as spent once it's gone.
- Set a time limit, and leave when you reach it.
- Never gamble with borrowed money or money you can't afford to lose.
- Avoid gambling when you're stressed, upset or have had a few drinks.
- Use the deposit and session limits most licensed sites offer.
Where to get help in Australia
National Gambling Helpline — 1800 858 858. Free, professional and confidential, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Gambling Help Online (gamblinghelponline.org.au). Free, confidential 24/7 support across Australia, including online chat, phone (1800 858 858) and email counselling, plus self-help programs, SMS support and peer support groups. Family and friends affected by someone else's gambling can get support too.
BetStop — the National Self-Exclusion Register (betstop.gov.au). A free Australian Government service that lets you self-exclude from all licensed Australian online and phone wagering providers in one process.
- Choose a period from three months up to a lifetime.
- You'll need a mobile number, email and ID (Australian driver's licence, Australian passport or Medicare card).
- While registered, providers must not open accounts, take your bets or send you marketing, and must close existing accounts and refund any credit balance.
- Need help signing up or want to use a different ID? Call 1800 238 786.
BetStop does not cover in-person betting such as casinos or pokie venues, or online services not licensed in Australia.