Put essentials first
Only consider money that is not needed for rent, food, bills, savings or other commitments. Decide on a spending boundary before starting and do not increase it during a session. Do not borrow, use credit or sell belongings to fund gambling.
Set a time boundary as well. Take breaks away from the screen, and avoid gambling when distressed, tired or affected by alcohol or other substances. Choosing not to gamble is always an option.
Understand what a result means
A losing sequence does not make a win due. A previous win does not make the next bet safer. Sports knowledge and research can inform an opinion, but neither removes uncertainty nor guarantees a profitable outcome.
Free spins, bonus funds and lottery entries can have conditions and expiry periods. Do not spend more or extend a session simply to finish wagering or avoid losing an offer. A promotional deadline is not a reason to ignore a personal limit.
Notice changes early
Warning signs include chasing losses, repeatedly exceeding a planned amount, hiding gambling from others, neglecting responsibilities or feeling unable to stop. Worrying constantly about the next opportunity to play can also be a reason to pause.
You do not need to wait for a crisis or meet a particular definition of a gambling problem to ask for help. If gambling is affecting your money, sleep, relationships or wellbeing, speak with someone you trust or a trained counsellor.
Take practical steps to stop
End the session and avoid making another deposit. Review the time-out or self-exclusion options provided by the service holding your account. Check their scope and duration; an account restriction at one service does not necessarily restrict other services.
Consider gambling-blocking software, browser restrictions and any gambling-payment blocking offered by your bank. These tools can support a decision to stop, but should not be treated as an absolute guarantee against access.
Do not open a replacement account to work around self-exclusion. Ask for help with ongoing restrictions if you find yourself looking for ways around them.
Confidential help in Australia
Call 1800 858 858 for free, confidential gambling counselling available around the clock across Australia. Gambling Help Online also provides online support. Help is available to people affected by someone else's gambling as well as to people who gamble themselves.
If you are outside Australia, use a recognised local gambling-support or health service. If someone is in immediate danger, contact local emergency services.
Protect younger people
Gambling is not for minors. Keep accounts, passwords and payment methods private, and do not let a child use an adult's gambling account. Sign out on shared devices and use appropriate parental controls.
Do not present gambling to a young person as a way to earn money or reward them with access to real-money games.
Supporting someone else
Choose a calm moment to talk about what you have noticed without blaming or shaming. Offer help finding professional support, while protecting your own finances and wellbeing. Lending money to cover repeated gambling losses can prolong the difficulty rather than resolve it.
Support services can help you decide how to set boundaries, even if the person affected is not yet ready to seek help.