Studio Epaducah describes the inner workings of casino games. This doesn't constitute a reason to gamble, and no content here provides a method for winning. If you gamble, you should be 18 or older, and it should stay a form of paid entertainment, similar to a movie ticket.
Signs it's becoming a problem
- You chase losses, or use more time or money than you intended.
- You use funds intended for groceries, bills or rent, or you borrow money.
- You keep your gambling secret from those close to you.
- You feel low, irritable or anxious about it.
- It's impacting relationships, sleep or work.
If any of these seem familiar, speak with someone sooner rather than later.
Limits you can set
- Determine an amount you can afford to lose before starting, and quit once it's gone.
- Use a phone alarm to establish a time limit.
- Keep your bank cards at home.
- Avoid gambling if you are drinking, upset or worried about money.
- Schedule regular days where you do not gamble at all.
Where to get help in Australia
National Gambling Helpline: 1800 858 858. This service is free, confidential, and professional, and it's open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Gambling Help Online. Counselling and support for anyone impacted by gambling are provided here for free and confidentially 24/7. You can contact the service via email, online chat, or phone (1800 858 858). All state and territory governments and the Australian Government fund it.
BetStop, the National Self-Exclusion Register. This is a free Australian Government service. Through a single process, you can exclude yourself from every licensed Australian phone and online wagering provider. You select the duration, from three months up to a lifetime.
- Signing up: The process takes around 5 minutes. You'll need a Medicare card, Australian driver's licence, or Australian passport, as well as access to your email and a mobile phone.
- No ID? Call BetStop on 1800 238 786 to talk about other methods to verify who you are if you lack those documents.
- What changes: Providers must not open an account for you, take your bets or send you marketing. They must also close any existing accounts and refund any credit balance.
- Support people: With their permission, you can nominate up to 5 support people.
- What it doesn't cover: Illegal gambling services, in-person betting at pokie venues or casinos, and online casino games.