Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment

Online casino games are based on chance. There is no guaranteed strategy, system or pattern that can ensure a win, and previous results do not determine what will happen next. A result can be affected by random chance, so players should expect that losses may occur. Never treat gambling as a reliable source of income, a way to repay debts or an answer to financial pressure.

Before you play, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Consider this amount an entertainment expense that may be lost. Do not increase your spending simply because you have lost, and do not continue playing to try to recover money. A break, a clear budget and a decision made in advance can help keep gambling under control.

• Only gamble with money set aside for entertainment after essential costs have been paid.
• Set a time limit before starting a gaming session and take regular breaks.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, tired, stressed, bored or under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Keep gambling separate from rent, mortgage payments, bills, food, savings and credit repayments.
• Do not borrow money, sell possessions or use credit to fund gambling.
• Remember that a win is not guaranteed and a loss does not need to be chased.

It can also be useful to keep a personal record of deposits, withdrawals, time spent playing and overall results. Looking at this information honestly may help you understand your habits. If gambling no longer feels like a choice or is affecting other parts of your life, stop playing and seek support.

Use limits and account controls

Personal limits can help you make decisions before the excitement of a gaming session begins. Depending on the options available for your account and the applicable requirements, you may be able to request or use controls relating to deposits, wagers, losses, time or access. Review the responsible gaming tools available through your account and choose settings that reflect what you can comfortably afford.

Plan your limits carefully

A limit should be realistic, affordable and based on your ordinary circumstances. It should not be money needed for essential living costs. Consider your weekly or monthly income, regular expenses, existing financial commitments and any other gambling activity when deciding what is appropriate. If you are unsure whether gambling fits your budget, do not deposit until you have reviewed your finances.

1. Choose an amount and playing period before you begin.
2. Apply the available limit or monitoring tool through your account where appropriate.
3. Do not change a limit during a difficult or emotional session simply to continue playing.
4. Stop when your time or spending limit has been reached.
5. Review your settings regularly and reduce them if your circumstances change.
6. Use a longer break or account closure if ordinary limits are not enough.

If you want to take a break, consider logging out, removing saved payment information, avoiding gambling-related advertising and making other activities part of your routine. Where a self-exclusion or account restriction option is available, read the conditions carefully before requesting it. A restriction should be treated seriously and should not be bypassed by opening or using another account.

Recognise the signs of gambling harm

Gambling harm can develop gradually, and a person may not notice the change straight away. Concern is not limited to the amount of money spent. Gambling can also affect relationships, work, study, sleep, emotional wellbeing and physical health. You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help.

The following signs may indicate that gambling is becoming difficult to control:

• Spending more time or money gambling than you planned.
• Trying to win back losses by increasing stakes or playing for longer.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when you try to stop or take a break.
• Hiding gambling activity, losses, transactions or account information from family or friends.
• Borrowing money, missing bills or experiencing financial problems because of gambling.
• Neglecting work, study, health, family responsibilities or social activities.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or using it to escape stress, sadness or other problems.
• Attempting to stop repeatedly without being able to maintain a break.
• Feeling guilt, shame, hopelessness or distress after gambling.

If any of these signs apply to you, stop gambling and speak with someone you trust. Do not try to solve gambling losses by gambling more. Review your account controls, consider a longer exclusion or closure period and seek advice from an appropriate gambling support service in Australia. Support is also available for family members, friends and others affected by someone else's gambling.

Getting help and taking a break

Asking for help is a practical step, not a failure. You can speak with a qualified counsellor, financial counsellor, health professional or an Australian gambling support service. These services can help you understand gambling behaviour, manage urges, plan a break, address financial concerns and support conversations with people close to you. Choose a service that is appropriate for your state or territory and your personal circumstances.

You may find it helpful to tell a trusted person what is happening and ask them to support your plan. This could include asking them to help you review spending, keep payment methods secure, attend an appointment with you or check in during a break. Be honest about the support you need. If you are supporting another person, approach the conversation calmly and focus on practical help rather than blame.

If you feel unsafe

If gambling has contributed to an immediate risk to your safety or the safety of another person, stop gambling and seek urgent assistance through the appropriate emergency or crisis service in your area. If you are experiencing severe distress or thoughts of self-harm, contact emergency support immediately and tell someone you trust. Gambling should never put your safety at risk.

Account closure, self-exclusion and other controls may help create distance from gambling, but they are not a substitute for professional support. If you request a restriction, follow the instructions provided and do not attempt to work around it. You can also ask your bank or payment provider whether they offer gambling transaction controls or other spending protections.

Protect young people and keep your account secure

Gambling is for adults only. You must meet the minimum legal age that applies to you before opening or using an online gambling account. Do not allow anyone under the legal age to access your account, use your payment method or watch and participate in gambling activity. Parents and carers should use suitable device, payment and account controls to reduce the risk of unauthorised access by children.

Keep your account credentials private and use a secure password. Do not share login details with friends, family members or any other person. Log out when you finish playing, particularly when using a shared device, and contact the relevant account support channel if you believe your account has been accessed without permission. Account security can help prevent other people from gambling through your account and may also help you maintain your own boundaries.

• Use your own account and payment method only.
• Do not let another person play or deposit through your account.
• Keep devices and passwords protected.
• Check account activity and transactions regularly.
• Do not try to bypass an account restriction or self-exclusion.
• Contact support if you need help understanding available responsible gaming options.

Responsible gaming is an ongoing choice. Set boundaries, check in with yourself and act early if gambling begins to affect your money, time, relationships or wellbeing. Winrolla Casino encourages players in Australia to use available controls, take breaks when needed and seek independent support whenever gambling no longer feels safe or enjoyable.