Reel Basics describes the inner workings of casino games and pokies, but we don't want that to encourage increased gambling. Gambling is for adults only, 18 and over. It should stay a form of paid entertainment, similar to a cinema ticket. It isn't a method for earning money or solving financial problems.
Signs it's becoming a problem
- Using more time or money than you intended
- Attempting to recover lost funds by gambling again
- Using money meant for rent or bills, or borrowing, to gamble
- Keeping your gambling a secret from friends or family
- It no longer feels enjoyable
If you recognise any of these, it's worth talking to someone sooner rather than later.
Limits you can set
- Pick a sum before you begin, and consider it gone.
- Use a phone alarm to establish a time limit.
- Leave your cards at home.
- Don't gamble when you're drinking, upset or stressed.
Where to get help in Australia
Gambling Help Online offers free, confidential support 24/7 throughout Australia. You can contact a professional counsellor via 1800 858 858, or through email and online chat. Peer support groups and a free SMS support service are also available. gamblinghelponline.org.au
Gambler's Help Youthline gives free, anonymous, confidential 24/7 support for individuals under 25 on 1800 262 376. Gambler's Help (1800 858 858) also offers help in other languages and support for First Nations people.
BetStop, the National Self-Exclusion Register, is a free service from the Australian Government. It lets you self-exclude from every licensed Australian phone and online wagering provider through a single process. You choose how long the exclusion lasts, ranging from three months up to a lifetime.
While you're registered, providers can't open an account for you, take your bets or send you marketing. They must close any existing accounts and refund your credit balance.
You'll need your email, a mobile phone, and one of the following to confirm your identity to sign up:
- a Medicare card
- an Australian passport
- an Australian state/territory driver's licence
You can nominate up to 5 support people. Use betstop.gov.au/signup to register, or call 1800 238 786 to use a different ID or get help.
Online services not licensed in Australia are not covered by BetStop. It also doesn't cover pokie venues, casinos, or other in-person betting.