Keep gambling optional, limited and separate from essentials

BEFORE GAMBLING

Use limits that still work on a difficult day

A useful limit is decided before excitement, frustration or a loss changes the decision. It should protect rent, food, bills, savings and family commitments even if the entire entertainment amount is lost.

Money limit

Use a fixed entertainment amount with no top-ups, borrowing or credit.

Time limit

Set an alarm and stop at the planned time whether ahead or behind.

Break rule

Pause after a strong emotion, unexpected loss or urge to increase stakes.

Tools such as deposit limits and time reminders can support a decision, but they do not make gambling risk-free. Use stronger barriers when limits are repeatedly changed or ignored.

EARLY WARNING SIGNS

Look for changes in behaviour, not only the amount lost

• Trying to win back a loss or increasing stakes to change the mood
• Hiding transactions, time spent or account activity from other people
• Using money reserved for essentials, borrowing or selling possessions
• Gambling while distressed, exhausted or under the influence
• Losing sleep, focus or interest in work and relationships
• Feeling unable to stop despite intending to take a break

One sign is enough to pause and talk to someone. Help is not reserved for a crisis or a particular loss amount.

ACTIONS FOR TODAY

Make the next decision harder to reverse impulsively

1. Stop the current sessionLog out and move away from the device; do not attempt a recovery bet.
2. Contact supportCall 1800 858 858 or start a confidential online chat.
3. Add financial frictionAsk a bank about gambling blocks and separate essential money.
4. Use self-exclusionRegister with the relevant service and close or exclude existing accounts.
5. Tell one trusted personShare the practical plan, not passwords or access credentials.

NATIONAL SELF-EXCLUSION

What BetStop covers

BetStop is an Australian Government service that lets a person exclude themselves from all licensed Australian online and phone gambling providers. Once registered, covered providers cannot let the person place a bet, open a new betting account or receive marketing messages.

BetStop concerns licensed Australian online and phone wagering providers. It does not convert an illegal casino service into a covered or protected operator. Read the official BetStop information and register.

FAMILY & FRIENDS

Support the person without financing the gambling

Choose a calm time, describe specific changes you have noticed and listen without humiliation. Offer to sit with the person while they contact professional support or organise essential bills. Avoid lending money for gambling, paying an operator fee or trying to manage the problem through secrecy.

Gambling Help Online supports anyone affected by gambling, including family members and friends. The service is free and available 24/7 across Australia.