Gambling involves the risk of losing money. It is not a source of income, a solution to debt or a way to recover previous losses. This guide is for adults aged 18 or over.
Set boundaries before you play
- Only use money you can afford to lose after essential expenses.
- Set a spending limit and a time limit before starting.
- Never borrow money to gamble or chase losses.
- Avoid gambling when distressed or under the influence of alcohol.
- Keep gambling separate from work, study and family commitments.
Use available account tools
Ask the operator about deposit limits, session reminders, cooling-off periods and self-exclusion. Availability varies by service. Confirm how a limit or exclusion works and when it takes effect. If you need to stop, do not create another account to get around a restriction.
Recognise warning signs
Spending more than intended, hiding gambling from others, feeling unable to stop or using essential household money can indicate harm. You do not need to wait for a crisis to seek help.
Support in Australia
Gambling Help Online offers free, confidential support. Call 1800 858 858 to speak with a gambling counsellor. Gambling Therapy provides additional online support and resources for affected individuals and families.
Protect younger people
Keep account details private, sign out on shared devices and use device-level parental controls. Do not allow anyone under 18 to use a gambling account.