Responsible Gaming

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Every bet or game outcome is uncertain. A result from a previous game does not make a future result more or less likely, and a losing run does not mean that a win is due. Understanding this can help you make decisions based on reality rather than expectation.

Before you play, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat that amount as the cost of entertainment, in the same way you might budget for a meal, a film or another leisure activity. Once your limit has been reached, stop playing. Do not add more funds simply because you have lost, and do not rely on a future win to recover money already spent.

You must be at least 18 years old to gamble in Australia. Gambling while affected by alcohol, drugs, strong emotions, tiredness or financial pressure can make it harder to remain in control. Consider waiting until you are in a clear and settled frame of mind before making any gambling decision.

• Never gamble with money needed for rent, bills, food, education or other essentials.
• Never use borrowed money, credit intended for other purposes or money belonging to someone else to gamble.
• Do not chase losses by increasing your bets or playing for longer than planned.
• Keep gambling separate from important responsibilities, work, study and relationships.
• Remember that gambling outcomes are based on chance and cannot be controlled through systems, patterns or betting rituals.

Making a plan before gambling is one of the simplest ways to stay in control. Decide your spending and time limits while you are calm, and write them down if that helps. A limit works only when you follow it, so avoid changing it during a session because you are winning, losing or feeling frustrated.

Useful habits for safer gambling

1. Set a gambling budget for a day, week or month. Use only money that you can afford to lose.
2. Set a time limit and use a reminder or alarm to help you finish when planned.
3. Take regular breaks away from the website or app. A break can make it easier to assess how you are feeling and what you have spent.
4. Keep a record of deposits, bets, wins and losses so that your gambling remains visible and realistic.
5. Avoid gambling when you are upset, bored, lonely, angry or trying to distract yourself from another problem.
6. Do not combine gambling with drinking or recreational drug use, as this can affect judgement and decision-making.
7. Discuss your plan with someone you trust if you find it difficult to keep limits on your own.

Winning does not mean that you should increase your budget, and losing does not mean that you should increase your stake. Set limits around both your deposits and your playing time where those controls are available. If you cannot keep to a limit, stop gambling and consider using a longer break or self-exclusion option.

Problem gambling can develop gradually. It may affect a person’s finances, mood, health, work, study or relationships before they realise what is happening. You do not need to wait for a serious crisis before asking for help. Speaking with a support service early can make it easier to regain control.

Consider taking a break and seeking support if any of the following statements feel familiar:

• You spend more time or money gambling than you intended.
• You repeatedly try to cut back or stop but find it difficult.
• You think about gambling often, including when you are working, studying or spending time with family.
• You chase losses or gamble to win back money that has already been lost.
• You hide, minimise or misrepresent your gambling or financial activity.
• You borrow money, sell possessions or use essential funds to continue gambling.
• You feel restless, anxious, irritable or low when you try to stop.
• You gamble to escape stress, sadness, loneliness or other difficult feelings.
• Gambling is causing arguments, missed responsibilities or problems at work or home.
• You continue gambling despite its effect on your finances, health or relationships.

These signs do not represent a diagnosis, but they can be a reason to pause and look for support. Gambling problems can affect anyone, regardless of age, income or previous experience. Feeling embarrassed should not prevent you from asking for help. A confidential conversation with a qualified support service can help you consider practical next steps.

If you are finding it difficult to stay within your plan, stop gambling as soon as possible and use the safer gambling controls available through your account or the relevant service channel. Depending on the service and your circumstances, these controls may include deposit limits, spending limits, session reminders, activity statements, temporary account breaks or self-exclusion.

Choosing a break

A temporary break can be useful when you want time away from gambling without making a permanent decision. During a break, do not try to avoid the purpose of the break by opening or using another account. Use the time to review your finances, discuss your concerns with someone you trust and consider professional support.

Self-exclusion

Self-exclusion is a stronger option for people who want to stop gambling for a specified period or longer. If you choose self-exclusion, follow the available process carefully and do not attempt to bypass the restriction. You may also wish to ask a trusted person to support you with financial arrangements, access to devices or other situations that could make returning to gambling more likely.

Account limits and self-exclusion are support measures, not a substitute for professional help. If gambling is causing financial, emotional or relationship problems, consider contacting an Australian gambling support organisation. These services can provide confidential advice, practical strategies and referrals that are appropriate to your circumstances.

If you are worried about your gambling, you can speak with a qualified gambling counsellor or an Australian gambling support service. Support may cover budgeting, debt concerns, urges to gamble, stress, relationships and ways to make your environment safer. You can seek help even if you have not decided whether you want to stop permanently.

You may also be concerned about a family member, friend or colleague. Approach the conversation calmly and choose a private time. Explain what you have noticed without accusing or shaming them. Encourage them to speak with a professional, while remembering that you cannot control another person’s gambling. Protect your own finances and wellbeing, and seek support for yourself if the situation is affecting you.

• Listen without judgement and allow the person to explain how they are feeling.
• Focus on specific behaviours or effects, such as missed bills, secrecy or time away from responsibilities.
• Avoid lending money to cover gambling losses or debts without independent advice.
• Encourage practical steps, such as a break, account limits, self-exclusion and professional counselling.
• Set clear boundaries around shared money, household expenses and access to accounts.
• Get urgent help if gambling is linked to threats, violence, self-harm or immediate danger.

If you or another person is in immediate danger, contact emergency services or an appropriate crisis support service in your area. For general gambling concerns, use a recognised Australian gambling support organisation or a qualified health professional. Fair Crown Casino encourages players to take concerns seriously and to seek support early.

Responsible gambling is an ongoing choice. Review your habits regularly, keep your limits realistic and stop whenever gambling is no longer enjoyable, affordable or within your control.