Responsible Gaming

Gambling involves risk, and every wager can result in a loss. There is no guaranteed strategy, system or pattern that can predict a winning result. Responsible gaming involves treating gambling as a recreational activity and deciding in advance how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Your decisions should be based on your own circumstances, rather than on the expectation of winning.

Before gambling, consider whether you can afford to lose the amount you plan to spend. Only use money set aside for entertainment after essential costs have been covered. Do not use money needed for rent, bills, food, education, debt repayments or other important commitments. Gambling should never be treated as an alternative source of income, an investment, a way to recover losses or a solution to financial stress.

Practical habits for safer play

• Set a spending limit before you start and stop when that limit is reached.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from gambling.
• Keep a clear record of your deposits, wagers and losses so you understand your activity.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, stressed, tired, angry or under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Never chase losses by increasing your stakes or continuing to play for longer.
• Do not borrow money, use credit intended for essential expenses or sell possessions to gamble.
• Keep gambling separate from household finances and other important spending.
• Talk openly with someone you trust if you are concerned about your gambling.
• Remember that previous results do not affect future results, and a losing run does not mean a win is due.
• Consider taking a break whenever gambling feels like an obligation rather than a choice.

It can also help to decide in advance what you will do when a session ends. Log out, leave the game and return to another activity. A planned stopping point can make it easier to follow the limits you set before play begins.

Gambling harm can develop gradually, and people may not recognise the change straight away. It can affect finances, mental health, physical health, relationships, employment and study. You do not need to wait for a serious problem before asking for help. Early support can make it easier to regain control.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you intended.
• Trying to win back money that has already been lost.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when you cannot gamble.
• Hiding, minimising or lying about gambling activity.
• Borrowing money or using savings to continue gambling.
• Missing work, study, family activities or other responsibilities because of gambling.
• Gambling to escape sadness, stress, loneliness or other difficult feelings.
• Feeling unable to stop or reduce gambling despite wanting to do so.
• Experiencing arguments, financial problems or relationship difficulties connected with gambling.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or planning daily activities around it.
• Selling belongings, taking on debt or neglecting essential expenses because of gambling.
• Feeling guilt, shame, hopelessness or distress after gambling.

If any of these signs feel familiar, consider stopping play and seeking independent support. Speaking with a trusted friend, family member, counsellor or health professional can be a useful first step. Asking for help is a practical and responsible decision, not a failure.

Depending on the options available on your account, you may be able to use tools designed to help manage gambling. These may include deposit limits, wagering or spending limits, session reminders, breaks, temporary account restrictions and self-exclusion. The availability, operation and conditions of these tools may vary, so review the information shown in your account and consider the option that best matches your needs.

Using limits effectively

1. Choose an amount and period that reflect your real entertainment budget.
2. Set the limit before you begin gambling, rather than after losses occur.
3. Use reminders or breaks to check how long you have been playing.
4. Do not increase a limit simply because you have reached it or experienced a loss.
5. Review your activity regularly and adjust your approach if gambling is taking more time or money than planned.
6. If you cannot stay within your chosen limits, stop gambling and consider a longer break or self-exclusion.

A break or self-exclusion is a request to restrict access to gambling for a chosen period or until a further review, where that option is available. During a restriction, do not try to create another account or find ways around the measure. If you want to use an account restriction, contact the available support channel or use the responsible gaming controls in your account. Any request should be made clearly, and you should read the relevant instructions so you understand how it works.

Account tools are intended to support your decisions, but they cannot replace personal judgement or professional help. If gambling is causing serious financial, emotional or personal harm, use the tools together with support from a qualified service.

Free and confidential gambling support is available in Australia. Support services can help you understand your gambling, create a plan, manage urges, address financial concerns and protect your relationships. Assistance may be available through telephone, online or face-to-face services, depending on your location and circumstances.

You can also speak with your general practitioner, a qualified counsellor, a financial counsellor or a trusted person in your life. If you are supporting someone else, you can seek advice about setting boundaries, discussing concerns and protecting shared finances. You do not have to manage the situation alone.

When urgent help is needed

If gambling has contributed to thoughts of self-harm, suicide, violence or immediate danger, stop gambling and seek urgent assistance. Contact emergency services in your location or attend the nearest emergency department. If you are in immediate danger, do not remain alone; contact someone you trust and ask them to stay with you while you obtain help.

Ricky Casino does not provide medical, psychological, financial or legal advice. Information on this page is general and is not a substitute for professional assistance. Gambling is not suitable for everyone, and age, location and other eligibility requirements may apply. If you choose to gamble, do so legally, within your means and for entertainment only.

Taking a break today can be a positive first step. Review your account controls, set a realistic limit, speak with someone you trust and seek independent support if you have any concerns about your gambling.