Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Every game is based on chance or other rules that can result in a loss. Previous results do not predict future results, and a win does not make another win more likely. You should only gamble with money you can afford to lose without affecting your everyday needs, financial commitments or wellbeing.

A responsible approach starts with deciding in advance how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Once you reach your chosen limit, stop playing. Do not increase your budget because you are close to a win, feeling confident or trying to recover money already lost. Chasing losses can lead to larger losses and may make it harder to make clear decisions.

For players in Australia, gambling access and requirements can vary between states and territories. You are responsible for checking that online gambling is lawful for you and for following any age, identity, account and location requirements that apply to your circumstances. You must not allow another person to use your account, and you should keep your login information private.

• Gamble only with discretionary funds, never money needed for rent, bills, food, credit repayments or other essentials.
• Set a time and spending plan before you start, and take regular breaks.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, tired, under the influence of alcohol or other substances, or trying to solve a financial problem.
• Remember that gambling outcomes are not affected by luck rituals, patterns or attempts to predict random results.
• Keep gambling separate from work, family responsibilities, study and other important activities.

Set limits and use account controls

Planning ahead can help you stay in control. If account controls are available, review them before gambling and choose settings that reflect your personal budget and routine. Limits should be realistic and should not be changed simply to continue playing after you have reached them. A limit is most effective when you decide it calmly, before gambling begins.

Helpful controls to consider

• Deposit or spending limits that restrict the amount added to your account during a chosen period.
• Loss limits that help you manage the amount you are prepared to lose.
• Wagering or play limits that place a boundary on gambling activity.
• Session reminders, breaks or time limits that prompt you to pause and review your play.
• A temporary account break when you want time away from gambling.
• Account closure or self-exclusion when you need stronger support to stop gambling.

The controls available, how they work and when changes take effect may depend on the account and platform features provided. Read the relevant information carefully before confirming a setting. If you are unsure how to apply a limit, use the responsible gaming or account support options shown on the website. Do not create another account to avoid a limit, break or exclusion.

You can also use practical steps outside your account. Remove saved payment details where appropriate, avoid carrying extra funds for gambling, use banking tools that help you monitor spending, and keep a private record of deposits and withdrawals. Consider telling someone you trust about the limits you have set so they can support your plan.

Recognise when gambling may be a problem

Gambling can become harmful gradually. A problem is not measured only by the amount of money lost. It can also affect time, relationships, work, study, sleep, mood and general wellbeing. You do not need to wait for a serious financial loss before asking for help.

Consider taking a break and seeking support if you notice any of the following signs:

• Spending more time or money gambling than you intended.
• Trying to win back losses or feeling unable to stop after deciding to stop.
• Gambling with money set aside for household expenses, savings or repayments.
• Borrowing money, selling belongings or hiding gambling activity from others.
• Feeling restless, irritable, anxious or low when you are not gambling.
• Neglecting work, study, family, health or other responsibilities.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or planning daily activities around it.
• Arguing with people close to you about gambling or avoiding honest conversations about it.
• Using gambling to escape stress, loneliness, sadness or other difficult feelings.
• Feeling shame, regret or loss of control after gambling.

One or more of these signs does not mean that you have to manage the situation alone. A qualified counsellor or financial counsellor can help you understand what is happening and develop practical next steps. Support is confidential and available whether you want to reduce gambling, take a break or stop completely.

Taking a break or self-excluding

If you are finding it difficult to control your gambling, consider using a temporary break or self-exclusion option. A break can provide time to reset your routine and think about your gambling without the pressure of continued play. Self-exclusion is a stronger step that restricts access for a chosen period or until a required process has been completed, depending on the option available.

Before starting a break or self-exclusion, withdraw any eligible balance in accordance with the applicable account terms and make arrangements for any pending matters. Do not gamble through another person’s account or open a new account to bypass a restriction. If you believe another person may be gambling through your account, secure your login details and seek assistance through the support channels available on the website.

A self-exclusion request should be treated seriously. It is not a temporary pause designed to be reversed whenever you feel like playing again. The duration, process and effect of an exclusion may vary according to the service and applicable Australian requirements. If you want to gamble again after an exclusion ends, take time to consider whether returning is appropriate and whether additional support would be helpful.

You can also ask a trusted person to help you stay accountable. They may assist with budgeting, checking in during a break or helping you contact an independent support service. If gambling is causing immediate financial, emotional or personal danger, prioritise your safety and seek urgent assistance from an appropriate emergency or support service.

Independent help and support

Independent support is available across Australia for people affected by gambling, including family members, partners and friends. Gambling Help Online is an Australian support service that provides information, counselling and guidance about gambling concerns. State and territory gambling support services may also provide counselling, financial guidance, family support and referrals to local organisations.

You do not have to identify as having a gambling addiction to contact a support service. You can ask questions about safer gambling, discuss a concern about someone else or get help with setting boundaries. Support may be available online, by telephone or in person, depending on the service and your location. Use the official Australian Government or relevant state or territory website to find current information and suitable support options.

If financial pressure is part of the problem, consider speaking with an independent financial counsellor before borrowing more money or making decisions about essential expenses. Avoid relying on gambling to pay bills, clear debt or create income. A financial counsellor can help you understand your options and plan practical steps.

Fair Go Casino provides responsible gaming information to help players make informed choices. This information is general and does not replace professional medical, financial or legal advice. If you have questions about a limit, account break, self-exclusion or another responsible gaming matter, use the support or account options displayed on the website. If you feel at immediate risk of harming yourself or someone else, contact emergency services or an appropriate crisis support service without delay.