Responsible Gambling

About Responsible Gambling

Responsible gambling is the act of playing in a manner that is safe and does not harm oneself or others. It involves setting limits, practising self exclusion, and seeking help if needed. With responsible gambling practices, you will be able to minimise the risk of losing money due to problem gambling. You will fully understand the mandatory tools and limits. Also, you will figure out how to effectively manage your activities.

Top Tips for Responsible Gambling

Gambling can be an enjoyable entertainment activity. However, it’s essential to keep it in control. Your attitude will determine whether you win or lose since some games are based on luck rather than skills. Here are 7 tips to help you gamble safely.

1. Set limits: Decide on the maximum amount you’re willing to spend before you start gambling and stick to it.
2. Know when to quit: Don’t chase losses; stop when you’ve reached your limit or are no longer having fun. You can self exclude yourself. This means you will no longer place a bet or access your account for a specific period.
3. Choose a credible online casino: Consider choosing licensed and regulated casinos to avoid falling victim to scammers.
4. Stay in control of time: Track the time you spend gambling. Make sure it doesn’t interfere with other vital activities.
5. Track your gambling history: Most online casino sites allow you to track the gambling history of your account to help you understand your spending habits.
6. Seek help if needed: If you or someone you know is experiencing problem gambling, look for help from various community organisations in Australia.

Helpful Tools Players Need to Stay in Control

Staying in control of your gambling activities is crucial. Below, we shed light on some of the helpful tools to practice responsible gambling.

• Self-exclusion: Ask your operator to self exclude you from online gambling for a certain period. This will help to avoid the risk of problem gambling.
• Reality checks: Set up pop-up messages that remind you of the amount of time you have spent gambling.
• Deposit limits: Limit the amount you can deposit on gambling products.
• Loss limits: Be aware of your losses using this tool. Consider taking a break before gambling again.
• Calculator: Using a calculator should be a normal part of your gambling activities. In this way, you can analyse your potential winnings.
• Session limits: Set the maximum time to play a game on an online casino. Practise self exclusion or set reminders on how much time you’ve spent playing.
• Self assessments: Assess yourself and identify your gambling patterns.

Signs You Are Affected by Gambling

Problem gambling is a condition where a person cannot control their urge to play despite the negative consequences. Here are some signs that may indicate a problem with gambling:

• Unable to stop: The need to spend more money for a longer period to achieve the same level of excitement.
• Chasing losses: Continuing to gamble in an effort to recover lost money.
• Money problems: Missing work, neglecting family, or not paying bills due to gambling.
• Deception: Lying about the extent of gambling activities or hiding gambling-related financial problems.

Guarding Minors From Gambling

Gambling is not suitable for children since they can still not make the best decisions. Besides, the activity is known to lead to crimes, and you do not want the children to be close to such activities.

In Australia, gambling for minors is prohibited, and the legal gambling age is 18. Some states cap the age limit to 21, depending on the game you plan to engage in. Teaching your children about the risks associated with gambling is important. And if you suspect that your child is gambling, the first step is to seek help from support communities.

Where to Get Help

If you are among the problem gamblers seeking responsible gambling information, there are several organisations that provide services to help you. We list below some of the reliable options in Australia which will help you get back into responsible gambling.

Gamblers Anonymous Australia

Gamblers Anonymous is a support group for individuals affected by gambling. It is a self-help group consisting of a 12-step recovery model. Regular meetings take place in a confidential and supportive environment. For further information, visit its website or contact page.

Gambling Therapy

Gambling Therapy is an online counselling service for problem gamblers. It is provided by professionals who offer support, information, and guidance. They help customers get back to responsible gambling. You can join the therapy community and get the services through its official website.

Debt Free Australia

Debt Free Australia is one of the communities offering financial counselling. It helps individuals struggling with debt due to gambling. With it, you will learn to use self-exclusion and get to effectively manage your funds. Visit its website or contact page, or call (1800 676 598).

SMART Recovery

SMART Recovery is a self-help community that applies cognitive behavioural therapy to support a person in overcoming addiction. Go to the SMART Recovery website for more. You can reach them via telephone (02 9373 5100). Also, their e-mail: [email protected].

ACT Gambling and Racing Commission

This commission is responsible for regulating gambling activities in the Australian Capital Territory. It provides information and support for customers with problem gambling. Contact them via phone (02 6207 0359, 1800 858 858) or email ([email protected]). To learn more, visit the website.

Dayhab

This rehabilitation centre supports customers experiencing challenges with responsible gambling. It offers various treatment programs and services. Visit Dayhab’s website and fill in the required form with your phone number or e-mail, so they can contact you as soon as possible.

National Debt Helpline

This is another free and confidential organisation offering advice and support services. It works with communities struggling with debt due to gambling. Visit its website at https://ndh.org.au/ or call 1800 007 007 (Monday to Friday, 9.30 a.m. – 4.30 p.m.) for further information.

Beyond Debt

Beyond Debt is a debt management service. It supports and provides assistance to customers struggling with debt due to financial mismanagement. To learn more about this service, visit its website. Another option is to contact them via phone (1300 096 989) or email ([email protected]).

Moneysmart.gov.au

This financial literacy website offers debt management tips, support services, etc. For more assistance, visit its website or ask questions here. Also, call 1300 300 630 (Australia) or +61 3 5177 3988 (Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).