Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment

Responsible gambling means understanding that gambling outcomes are based on chance and that losses can happen. No strategy can guarantee a win, and previous results do not determine what will happen next. Treat every wager as entertainment spending rather than as an investment, income source or solution to financial concerns.

Before using any gambling service, make sure you are allowed to do so under the laws that apply to you. You must also meet the applicable minimum age and location requirements. Do not gamble when you are under the influence of alcohol or other substances, feeling distressed, or trying to recover money that you have already lost.

• Decide how much money and time you can afford to spend before you begin.
• Use only money set aside for entertainment after essential expenses have been paid.
• Keep track of your deposits, wagers, wins and losses rather than relying on memory.
• Take regular breaks and avoid gambling for longer than you originally planned.
• Accept losses as part of gambling and never chase them with larger or more frequent bets.
• Do not borrow money, use credit intended for essential expenses or sell possessions to gamble.
• Avoid gambling as a response to stress, loneliness, boredom, anger or financial pressure.

A budget should be realistic and should not affect rent, mortgage payments, food, utilities, transport, education, healthcare or other important commitments. If a gambling budget is difficult to maintain, stopping and asking for support is a safer choice. Gambling should never take priority over your wellbeing, relationships or responsibilities.

Use safer gambling controls

Planning limits in advance can make it easier to stay in control. Depending on the service and applicable requirements, safer gambling controls may include deposit limits, spending limits, loss limits, time reminders, breaks, account restrictions or self-exclusion. Read the information provided with each control carefully so that you understand how it works and when it takes effect.

Set limits before you play

1. Choose a maximum amount you can afford to lose over a set period.
2. Choose how long you intend to play and decide when you will stop.
3. Apply available account limits before depositing or placing wagers.
4. Keep your gambling funds separate from money needed for daily living.
5. Review your activity regularly and reduce your limits if your circumstances change.
6. If you reach a limit, do not try to work around it by opening another account or using another person’s account.

Some controls may not take effect immediately, and some changes may be subject to applicable rules or processing requirements. A request to increase a limit should never be used as a reason to continue gambling beyond your planned budget. Where available, a break or self-exclusion can prevent access for a chosen period. Self-exclusion is intended for people who need stronger protection from gambling and should be considered seriously.

Keep your account secure. Do not share login details, payment information or access with another person. Do not allow anyone who is underage or otherwise not permitted to gamble to use your account. If you believe someone else has accessed your account, stop using it and follow the relevant account security or support process.

Recognise when gambling may be a problem

Problem gambling can affect people from any background and may develop gradually. It is not necessary to lose a particular amount of money before asking for help. The important question is whether gambling is affecting your choices, finances, health, work, study or relationships.

You may wish to pause gambling and seek support if you notice any of the following signs:

• Spending more time or money gambling than you planned.
• Increasing your bets or deposits to achieve the same excitement.
• Chasing losses or returning quickly after a loss to try to win money back.
• Thinking about gambling during work, study, family time or other important activities.
• Hiding gambling activity, losses, transactions or account information from people close to you.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when trying to cut back or stop.
• Borrowing money, missing bills or using essential funds because of gambling.
• Selling belongings, taking on debt or delaying important payments to continue gambling.
• Gambling to escape emotional problems or to change your mood.
• Arguing with family, friends or colleagues because of gambling.
• Feeling regret, shame or distress after gambling but continuing to do it.
• Neglecting sleep, health, work, study or personal responsibilities.

If any of these signs apply, stop gambling and consider closing or restricting your account. Speak openly with someone you trust and contact a recognised gambling support service available in your state or territory. Professional support can help you understand what is happening, protect your finances and create a practical plan. You do not need to manage the situation alone.

Getting help and protecting your wellbeing

Support is available for people who gamble, as well as for family members, friends and others affected by gambling. In Australia, you can seek confidential assistance through a recognised gambling counselling service, a health professional, a community support organisation or a service operating in your state or territory. These services can provide information, counselling, financial guidance and support with self-exclusion or other protective steps.

• Tell a trusted person what is happening and ask them to help you stay accountable.
• Remove saved payment methods and avoid keeping easy access to gambling funds.
• Review bank statements and account activity so that the full position is clear.
• Prioritise essential bills and consider speaking with a qualified financial counsellor about debts.
• Take a break from gambling, use available account restrictions or request self-exclusion where appropriate.
• Ask a health professional for help if gambling is affecting your sleep, mood, relationships or general health.
• If you or another person is in immediate danger, contact local emergency services or seek urgent medical assistance.

88 Casino supports a safer approach to gambling and encourages players to use available controls before difficulties arise. Information on this page is general and is not a substitute for professional medical, legal or financial advice. Gambling services and responsible gambling requirements can change, so always read the applicable terms, notices and support information before using an account.

If gambling no longer feels enjoyable or affordable, the safest option is to stop. Taking action early can reduce harm and make it easier to regain control. Asking for help is a responsible decision, not a failure.