Fair Flies discusses the mechanics of casino games because the mathematics is truly interesting. However, the house maintains an edge on every game we mention, meaning that funds move in one direction over time. Gambling is for adults 18 and older, and it's healthiest treated as paid entertainment — money you're happy to spend for some fun, not a way to earn or chase losses.
When it stops being fun
You should reflect on your habits occasionally. Some common signs that gambling is turning into an issue include:
- Using more time or funds than you planned, or more than your budget allows.
- Placing bets to recover previous losses.
- Skipping bill payments, selling possessions or taking out loans to continue gambling.
- Concealing the extent of your gambling from those near you.
- Experiencing irritability, anxiety or low moods when you aren't gambling.
- Neglecting your studies, job or personal relationships.
None of these things make you a bad person. They're simply things to take seriously.
Practical limits you can set
- Fix a budget before beginning, and consider it gone as soon as you start.
- Use an alarm to manage a time limit.
- Carry only cash and leave your cards at home.
- Avoid gambling when you are bored, upset, drinking, or trying to win back losses.
- Take regular breaks and ensure gambling stays separate from funds for bills, food or rent.
Where to get help in Australia
National Gambling Helpline — professional, confidential and free support, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 1800 858 858.
Gambling Help Online — free and confidential 24/7 support through email, online chat and phone (1800 858 858), as well as peer support groups, an SMS service, self-assessment and self-help advice: gamblinghelponline.org.au. You can also go here if you have concerns about someone else's gambling.
Gambler's Help Youthline — confidential, anonymous and free 24/7 support for individuals under 25: 1800 262 376.
BetStop – the National Self-Exclusion Register
Launched 21 August 2023 and managed by ACMA, BetStop is a secure, free Australian Government register that enables you to exclude yourself from all online and phone wagering providers licensed in Australia through one process. You can choose a registration period of 3 months up to a lifetime. Providers are required to close your current accounts and return any credit, and they must not allow you to place bets, create accounts, or send you marketing while you are registered.
You'll need a mobile phone, your email inbox, and a Medicare card, Australian passport or Australian State/Territory driver licence for identity verification to sign up at betstop.gov.au/signup. Call 1800 238 786 if you need assistance registering or wish to use a different ID.
Keep in mind: BetStop does not include online casino games, betting in person (such as pokie venues and casinos), or online services that aren't licensed in Australia.