4s2018sydney.org – Safe and responsible gaming

This page has been prepared to support safe play, to help players recognise risks early, and to provide families with guidance on how to manage gambling-related concerns. Gambling is a legal form of entertainment in Australia, but it must always be approached responsibly.

Core Principles of Responsible Gameplay

Responsible gaming is about balance. It means enjoying gambling as a form of entertainment rather than relying on it as a source of income. To stay in control, consider the following principles:

• Play for fun, not profit. Money spent on pokies, table games, or sports betting should always be treated as entertainment costs.
• Set a budget. Decide in advance how much you are prepared to spend, and never exceed that amount. Gambling funds should never overlap with essential living expenses.
• Manage your time. Allocate specific time for play, use reminders, and take regular breaks.
• Understand the odds. Every game has a house edge. Knowing this helps set realistic expectations.

Following these principles allows gambling to remain a controlled, enjoyable activity without interfering with daily responsibilities.

Early Signs of Risky Behavior

Problem gambling often begins with subtle changes in behaviour rather than sudden crises. Recognising these early can help prevent harm.

Common warning signs include:

• Increasing stakes or playing longer in an attempt to recover losses.
• Spending more time or money than originally planned.
• Borrowing funds or missing bills to continue gambling.
• Concealing gambling activity from loved ones.
• Gambling to escape stress, loneliness, or negative emotions.

If you identify with any of these patterns, it is advisable to pause, set stricter limits, or seek professional assistance. Early action can make a significant difference.

Debunking Common Myths

Misconceptions about gambling often fuel risky decisions. Understanding the reality behind these myths helps players approach gambling rationally.

Recognising these truths allows players to approach gambling with clearer expectations and less risk of harm.

Self-Assessment and Setting Limits

Self-reflection is an important part of responsible gambling. A quick self-assessment can help highlight areas of concern:

• Do you gamble longer or spend more than you intended?
• Have you tried to reduce gambling but found it difficult?
• Do you gamble to cope with stress or negative moods?

Answering “yes” to several of these may indicate a need for stronger controls.

Practical tools include:

• Setting deposit or loss limits with the operator.
• Using reminders or “reality checks” during play.
• Enforcing cooling-off periods or longer self-exclusion options.
• Keeping gambling funds separate from everyday accounts.
• Avoiding play when under the influence of alcohol or when distressed.

Combining self-awareness with operator tools gives players a practical framework to stay in control.

Support for Players and Their Families

The impacts of gambling can extend beyond the individual. Families may experience financial stress, relationship breakdowns, or emotional strain. Open communication and structured support are key.

Helpful approaches include:

• Starting non-judgemental conversations about concerns.
• Protecting household finances by setting clear boundaries.
• Encouraging the individual to seek professional support.
• Accessing counselling for family members affected by another person’s gambling.

Families should remember they are not alone. Across Australia, organisations and helplines provide dedicated assistance for both players and their loved ones.

Connecting With Professionals for Help

Our website does not provide counselling services, but we encourage anyone affected by gambling to connect with professional support. In Australia, free and confidential help is available through services such as:

• Gambling Help Online – nationwide, offering online chat and resources.
• Financial counselling services – for those managing debt related to gambling.

Before making contact, it may help to:

• Note recent gambling activity (games, time spent, money wagered).
• Identify primary concerns (financial, emotional, or relational).
• Decide which type of support feels most urgent (counselling, debt advice, exclusion programs).

Seeking help is a sign of responsibility, not weakness. Professional services can provide strategies that go beyond what self-control alone can achieve.

Responsible Gaming and Protection of Minors

Protecting young people from exposure to gambling is an essential part of responsible play. Parents and guardians can take proactive measures to safeguard minors.

• Use strong passwords and log out of gambling accounts after play.
• Enable parental controls on devices and home networks.
• Avoid saving payment methods on shared devices.

By creating a safe digital environment and having open discussions, adults reduce the risk of underage gambling exposure and set healthier expectations for the future.