Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment

Before you play, decide how gambling fits within your entertainment budget. Only use money that you can afford to lose after essential costs such as housing, food, bills, transport and other commitments have been covered. Gambling outcomes are based on chance, and there is no reliable method for predicting a win or recovering previous losses.

A win is never guaranteed, and past results do not change the likelihood of future results. A game that has not produced a win for some time is not necessarily due to pay out, while a previous win does not make another win more likely. Treat each gambling decision separately and avoid making decisions based on systems, patterns or promises of certainty.

• Only gamble if you meet the applicable minimum age and legal requirements where you are located.
• Set a personal spending amount before you begin and do not increase it during a session.
• Use a time limit as well as a money limit.
• Take regular breaks and avoid playing when tired, upset, stressed or under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Keep gambling separate from money needed for rent, bills, education, savings or family expenses.
• Do not borrow money, use credit intended for essential expenses or sell belongings to fund gambling.
• Never chase losses by increasing stakes or continuing to play after your planned limit has been reached.
• Do not gamble as a way to manage anxiety, loneliness, depression or other difficult feelings.

It can help to keep a simple record of the time and money you spend gambling. Reviewing your activity may give you a clearer view of your habits than relying on memory alone. If the activity is no longer enjoyable, or if you feel unable to stop, take a break and consider using stronger account controls or seeking independent support.

Set limits and use account controls

Planning your limits in advance can help you make decisions before emotions or excitement influence your play. Depending on the account features available to you and the requirements that apply to the service, you may be able to use controls relating to deposits, spending, losses, session duration or access. Read the terms of each control carefully before confirming it.

Practical steps before playing

1. Choose the maximum amount you are prepared to spend over a defined period.
2. Decide how long your session will last and set a reminder to stop when the time is over.
3. Make sure your chosen limit is realistic and based on your disposable entertainment budget.
4. Do not change a limit simply because you have lost money or want to continue after a win.
5. Keep your gambling account details secure and do not allow another person to use your account.
6. Review your account activity regularly so that deposits, withdrawals and play time are not ignored.
7. If you need a complete break, ask about account closure or self-exclusion options available through the service.

Some limit changes may not apply immediately, may be subject to a cooling-off period or may operate differently depending on the type of control selected. A reduction may take effect sooner than an increase. Any available settings should be used as part of your personal plan, not as a substitute for professional advice.

If you have decided to stop gambling, do not rely only on willpower. Remove saved payment methods where appropriate, block gambling-related notifications, avoid gambling advertising and ask a trusted person to support your decision. You can also seek information from an independent gambling support service or a qualified health professional in Australia.

Recognise signs of gambling harm

Gambling harm can develop gradually and may affect finances, relationships, work, study, physical health and emotional wellbeing. A person does not need to gamble every day, or lose a large amount, to experience harm. The important question is whether gambling is causing problems or becoming difficult to control.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you intended.
• Trying to win back money immediately after a loss.
• Increasing the amount or frequency of gambling to feel the same excitement.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when trying to cut down or stop.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or finding it difficult to focus on other activities.
• Hiding gambling activity, deposits, losses or account statements from family or friends.
• Borrowing money, missing payments or using essential funds to continue gambling.
• Selling possessions or taking financial risks because of gambling.
• Arguing with people close to you about gambling or withdrawing from social activities.
• Missing work, study, appointments or important responsibilities.
• Feeling guilt, shame, hopelessness or distress after gambling.
• Gambling to escape problems, improve your mood or cope with difficult emotions.

If any of these signs feel familiar, stop and review your situation rather than trying to solve the problem through further gambling. Speak openly with someone you trust and consider contacting an independent support service, counsellor, psychologist, doctor or other qualified professional. Early support can make it easier to regain control.

You can also support another person without judging or blaming them. Choose a calm time to talk, describe the changes you have noticed, listen to their concerns and encourage professional help. Avoid lending money to cover gambling losses or taking responsibility for managing another adult's gambling without appropriate guidance. Support should also protect your own financial and emotional wellbeing.

Taking a break and getting help

A temporary break can be useful when you feel distracted, upset or uncertain about your gambling. During a break, avoid gambling on all platforms where possible and fill the time with activities that do not involve wagering. Spending time with family or friends, exercising, returning to hobbies and dealing with financial tasks can help create distance from gambling.

Self-exclusion is a stronger option for people who want to prevent access for a longer period. If this option is available, read the conditions carefully and select a period that supports your decision to stop. Self-exclusion may apply to a particular account or service, so you should also consider other gambling websites, apps, venues and products that you use. Independent support services can help you make a broader plan.

If gambling has caused financial difficulty, consider speaking with a free or independent financial counselling service in Australia. A financial counsellor may help you understand your position, prioritise essential bills and plan practical next steps. Do not take out further loans or use gambling as a strategy to repair your finances.

If gambling is affecting your mental health, speak with a doctor, psychologist, counsellor or another qualified health professional. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, seek urgent help from emergency services. If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, do not remain alone; contact an appropriate crisis or mental health support service in your area as soon as possible.

Queenau Casino encourages players to make informed choices and to use available safer-gambling tools. Our general information cannot assess your individual circumstances or replace professional advice. If you are unsure whether gambling is safe for you, the safest choice is to stop gambling and seek independent support.