Responsible Gaming Guide: Gamble Safely & Stay in Control
Complete guide to safe, responsible online gambling. Learn strategies to stay in control and resources for help.
What is Responsible Gambling?
Responsible gambling means playing for entertainment within your means, understanding the risks, and maintaining control. It's about:
- Playing with money you can afford to lose
- Viewing gambling as entertainment, not a way to earn money
- Keeping gaming in perspective and maintaining other life priorities
- Understanding the odds and knowing the house always has an edge
- Being aware of time and money spent gambling
🎯 Safe Gambling Checklist
Set a Budget
Decide how much you can afford to lose before you start
Set Time Limits
Decide how long you'll play and stick to it
Use Deposit Limits
Set maximum daily/weekly/monthly deposit limits with casinos
Never Chase Losses
If you lose your budget, stop. Don't increase bets to recover losses
Take Regular Breaks
Step away from gambling regularly, especially if stressed
Gamble When Sober
Never gamble when under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Understand the Odds
Remember: you're more likely to lose than win. The house always has an edge
Separate Finances
Use a separate account for gambling funds; never mix with bills or savings
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you notice any of these signs in yourself or someone else, seek help immediately:
Personal Warning Signs:
- Gambling more often or for longer periods than intended
- Unable to reduce or control gambling despite trying
- Neglecting work, family, or other commitments because of gambling
- Gambling to escape problems or negative feelings
- Lying to family members about gambling habits or losses
- Increasing bet amounts to maintain excitement
- Feeling restless or irritable when not gambling
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay off gambling debts
External Warning Signs:
- Preoccupation with gambling topics
- Sudden mood changes or depression
- Missing work, school, or social events
- Inability to meet financial obligations
- Relationship problems due to gambling
Getting Help: Resources Available
Gambler's Help Victoria
Free confidential counselling and support
1800 858 858
Available 24 hours, 7 days a week
National Gambling Helpline
Australia-wide free counselling
1800 858 858
Professional counsellors available
Gamblers Anonymous
Peer support groups
www.gamblersanonymous.org.au
Regular meetings across Australia
BetStop Self-Exclusion
National self-exclusion register
www.betstop.com.au
6-12 month exclusion option
Bankroll Management Strategies
The 1% Rule
Limit each bet to 1% of your total bankroll. This helps preserve your budget over time.
Example: If you have $200 budget, max bet is $2 per spin
Session-Based Limits
Divide your weekly/monthly budget into smaller sessions. Stop when the session ends, win or lose.
Example: $100/week = 4 sessions of $25 each, 1 hour per session
Win/Loss Limits
Set a win goal and loss limit. If you hit either, stop playing immediately.
Example: Win limit $50, loss limit $40—stop when either is reached
Remember These Golden Rules
- Gamble for fun, not profit. No gambling system can beat the house edge.
- Only bet what you can lose. Never use money for bills, rent, or savings.
- Set strict limits and stick to them. Discipline is your best tool.
- Take regular breaks. Gambling non-stop increases the risk of problems.
- Never chase losses. This is how small losses become big problems.
- Seek help early. The sooner you address a problem, the easier recovery is.