Safer Gambling
How do I recognize a gambling problem?
Problem gambling often develops without you noticing. Warning signs include spending more money or time gambling than intended, lying about your gambling to friends or family, chasing losses by betting more to recover money, and neglecting work or home responsibilities. Financial red flags are especially important: unexplained debt, maxed-out credit cards, borrowing from others, or selling possessions to fund gambling. Using gambling as an escape from stress, sadness, or difficult emotions is another sign that it may be becoming unhealthy. These warning signs can appear gradually, so it’s worth checking in with yourself regularly about your habits.
What tools can help me stay in control?
Many online gambling platforms offer protective features to help players manage their gambling. Deposit limits cap how much you can spend in a set period, time limits restrict how long you can play in a session, and self-exclusion options let you close your account temporarily or permanently. The most effective approach is to use these tools before problems develop—don’t wait until you’re struggling. Setting a reasonable deposit limit and taking regular breaks between sessions can prevent gambling from becoming compulsive. These protections only work if you actually activate them, so consider using them as a preventative measure rather than waiting for a crisis.
Where can I find free support in Australia?
If you’re concerned about your own gambling or someone else’s, confidential help is available 24/7. Gambling Help Online offers free counselling by phone, online chat, or video—call 1800 858 858 anytime. They provide self-assessment tools, support groups, and learning modules to help you understand your habits and build strategies for change. BetStop, the national self-exclusion register, lets you block yourself from all licensed Australian online and phone betting providers through a single process. Exclusion periods range from three months to lifetime, and the service is completely free and confidential.
What’s my first move?
If you’re noticing warning signs, start with the protective features available on your gambling account—set a deposit limit, activate a time limit, or explore self-exclusion. If you feel you’ve lost control, reach out to Gambling Help Online at 1800 858 858 or register with BetStop online. Speaking to someone you trust—family, a friend, or your doctor—can also help. These free services are designed specifically for Australians and understand problem gambling in all its forms. Taking action early makes recovery significantly more likely.
Getting in touch
If you have questions about responsible gambling in Australia or need more resources, please reach out to us using the contact form on this website. We’re here to help you find the information and support you need.