The purpose of all content on this blog is to clarify the mechanics of casino games, rather than to encourage you to play. Gambling is intended for adults 18+, and it works best when it remains one form of leisure among others — something you allocate a fixed budget for, similar to how you might for an evening out.
The mathematics behind these games is constant: over time, the house keeps an edge. Keep that in mind if a session no longer feels enjoyable.
Signs it might be becoming a problem
Consider stopping if you see any of these:
- Using more time or money than you intended, and struggling to quit.
- Chasing losses — placing more bets to recover what you've lost.
- Taking out loans, or spending money intended for food, rent or bills.
- Concealing the extent of your gambling from those near you.
- Experiencing low mood, anxiety or irritability when you aren't playing.
- Gambling as a way to avoid stress instead of for fun.
Practical limits you can set
- Pick a set sum before you begin, and consider it gone.
- Establish a time cap, and set a phone alarm to ensure you see it.
- Do not add funds to "win it back".
- Store gambling money apart from accounts used for daily life.
- Pause frequently, and avoid playing if you're drinking, upset or tired.
Where to get help in Australia
- National Gambling Helpline — 1800 858 858. Professional, free and confidential support, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Gambling Help Online. Free, confidential 24/7 support via phone (1800 858 858), email counselling and live chat, which includes help for friends and family. Gamblers Help provides face-to-face, online and phone counselling on 1800 858 858 for those in Victoria, plus a Youthline on 1800 262 376. Go to Gambling Help Online if you're in the ACT, NSW, NT, Queensland, SA, Tasmania or WA.
Self-excluding with BetStop
BetStop is the free National Self-Exclusion Register, which is a government service that removes your access to every licensed Australian online and phone wagering provider via a single process.
- Sign up takes around 5 minutes. You'll need a mobile number, email address, and an Australian driver's licence, passport or Medicare card.
- You select the duration — from at least three months up to a lifetime.
- While you're registered, providers can't create accounts for you, allow you to bet, or provide marketing, and must close existing accounts and return any credit.
- Call 1800 238 786 if you want to use a different ID document or need help signing up.
One limit to note: BetStop doesn't include in-person betting like pokie venues or casinos, or online services that lack an Australian licence.