Responsible Gaming

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Games are based on chance or other factors, and past results do not predict future outcomes. A win does not mean that another win is more likely, while a loss does not mean that a win is due. Set a budget before you begin and treat any money spent as the cost of entertainment.

Only gamble with money you can afford to lose after essential costs have been covered. Gambling should never take priority over rent, mortgage payments, bills, food, education, medical expenses or other important commitments. Do not use borrowed money, credit intended for necessities or money set aside for someone else.

• Decide how much money and time you can spend before starting.
• Keep gambling separate from household and essential spending.
• Never chase losses by increasing your stakes or playing for longer.
• Do not gamble when you are upset, tired, angry or under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Take regular breaks and avoid gambling continuously for long periods.
• Remember that gambling outcomes cannot be controlled by a system, ritual or strategy.

If gambling stops feeling like entertainment, pause your activity and consider speaking with someone you trust or a qualified support service. Asking for help early can make it easier to regain control.

Problem gambling can affect people in different ways. It may develop gradually, and a person may not recognise the impact until gambling has affected their finances, relationships, work, study or wellbeing. One sign on its own may not confirm a problem, but several signs should be taken seriously.

• Spending more time or money gambling than you originally planned.
• Trying to win back money after a loss or feeling unable to stop after a win.
• Increasing the amount or frequency of gambling to get the same excitement.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when trying to reduce or stop gambling.
• Hiding gambling activity, losses or account information from family or friends.
• Borrowing money, selling belongings or missing essential payments because of gambling.
• Gambling to escape stress, loneliness, sadness or other difficult feelings.
• Finding that gambling affects sleep, work, study, relationships or normal activities.
• Making repeated attempts to cut down or stop without being able to do so.
• Feeling regret, shame or distress after gambling, then returning to gamble again.

If any of these signs sound familiar, stop gambling for now. Do not try to solve gambling losses by gambling more. Consider using available account restrictions, tell someone you trust what is happening and contact a qualified gambling support service in your state or territory. Support is available for people who gamble and for family members or friends affected by someone else’s gambling.

You do not need to wait for a serious financial loss before asking for help. A conversation with a trusted family member, friend, counsellor, financial counsellor or gambling support professional can help you understand your options. Support services can provide confidential guidance, practical strategies and information about restrictions or treatment options that may be suitable for your situation.

If you decide to stop, remove access to gambling where possible. Log out, use available account restrictions, take a break from gambling-related content and avoid situations that make it harder to follow your plan. You may also wish to speak with your bank about financial controls or ask a trusted person to help manage essential payments while you regain stability.

If someone you know is affected

Family members and friends can also be affected by gambling. Choose a calm time to raise your concerns, focus on the effects rather than blame and encourage the person to seek professional help. Protect your own finances, avoid covering repeated gambling losses and do not lend money for gambling. You can seek support for yourself even if the person gambling is not ready to ask for help.

If gambling has created immediate financial, emotional or personal danger, stop gambling and seek urgent assistance through appropriate local emergency or support services. This page is general information and is not a substitute for professional, financial, legal or medical advice. Casino Bello encourages players to make careful choices, use available restrictions and seek help whenever gambling is no longer enjoyable or under control.