Taking Control: A Guide to Responsible Gambling in Australia

Lucille Garcia | May 9, 2023 | Updated on: May 12th, 2023

Responsible gambling is crucial to enjoying the activity without becoming a problem. It involves knowing your limits, understanding the risks, and ensuring gambling remains fun and safe. Promoting responsible gambling is particularly important in Australia, where gambling is widespread.

The negative consequences of gambling addiction can be devastating, affecting the individual, their loved ones, and the wider community. This guide provides tips and resources for practising responsible gambling in Australia and advice on how to talk to loved ones about responsible gambling and promote responsible gambling in the community.

Tips for Responsible Gambling

Responsible gambling is about making informed decisions and taking control of your gambling activity. By following these tips, you can help ensure that gambling remains a fun and safe activity:

Set limits on time and money spent gambling: Determine how much time and money you can afford to pay on gambling and stick to it. This will help prevent overspending and reduce the risk of developing a gambling problem.
Avoid gambling when feeling emotional or stressed: Gambling should be a form of entertainment, not a way to escape or cope with difficult emotions. If you’re upset, angry, or anxious, avoiding gambling is best until you feel calmer and in control.
Gamble for entertainment, not as a source of income: Gambling should never be seen as a way to make money or solve financial problems. Instead, treat it as a fun activity to enjoy in moderation.
Understand the odds of winning and losing: It’s important to know that the house always has an advantage, and the odds are never in your favour. Understanding this can help you manage your expectations and avoid chasing losses.
Don’t chase losses: It’s common for people to try to win back their losses, but this can lead to reckless and impulsive behaviour. Instead, accept failures, move on to other activities, or take a break from gambling altogether.
Avoid using credit cards to gamble: Credit cards can make overspending and accumulating debt easier. Stick to using cash or a debit card instead.
Take breaks and step away from gambling if it becomes overwhelming: If you feel like gambling is taking over your life or becoming too much to handle, take a break and seek help.

Practising responsible gambling allows you to enjoy the activity without developing a problem. Remember, gambling should always be fun and done in moderation.

Resources for Responsible Gambling in Australia

Fortunately, many resources are available for those who want to practice responsible gambling in Australia. Here are some of the best resources and organisations:

National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) – The NCPG is an independent organisation that provides resources and support to those struggling with gambling addiction. Their website includes information on identifying and addressing gambling addiction and offers a helpline for confidential counselling.
Gambling Help Online – Gambling Help Online is a free service that provides information, advice, and support for anyone affected by gambling. The website offers a range of resources, including a self-assessment tool, chat and email support, and a forum for sharing experiences.
Self-exclusion programs – Many casinos and gaming venues offer self-exclusion programs, allowing individuals to ban themselves. This can be a valuable tool for those struggling with gambling addiction.
Tools for tracking gambling activity – Many apps and tools are available to help individuals track their gambling activity and spending. Some popular options include Gamban, BetBlocker, and Gambler’s Help Self-Assessment.
State and territory governments – Each state and territory in Australia has its responsible gambling agency that provides resources and support for those struggling with gambling addiction. Some examples include Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation, Queensland Government Gambling Help, and Gambling Impact Society NSW.

By utilising these resources and seeking help, individuals can practice responsible gambling and maintain a healthy relationship with gambling. Remember, responsible gambling is essential for ensuring gambling remains a fun and safe activity.

How to Talk to Someone About Responsible Gambling

Talking to someone about their gambling habits can be difficult, but it’s a meaningful conversation if you suspect they may be struggling with gambling addiction. Here are some tips on how to approach the conversation:

Choose the Right Time and Place

Choose a time and place where the person feels comfortable and is not distracted. For example, avoid mentioning the topic when they are stressed or in a rush.

Be Empathetic

Show the person that you care about their well-being and are not judging them. For example, use “I” statements to express your concerns, such as “I’m worried about you” or “I’ve noticed that you’ve been spending a lot of time gambling lately”.

Provide Information On Responsible Gambling

Let the person know that resources and support are available for practising responsible gambling in Australia. Mention some of the organisations and tools discussed above.

Listen and Offer Support

Give the person a chance to express their thoughts and feelings without interrupting or judging them. Offer to support them in finding help and making positive changes.

Remember, it’s essential to approach the conversation with sensitivity and understanding. By showing the person that you care about their well-being and providing information on responsible gaming, you can help them make informed decisions and practice responsible gaming.

Practising Responsible Gambling in Australia

Practising responsible gambling is essential for ensuring that gambling remains a fun and safe activity. By following the tips and utilising the resources discussed in this guide, individuals can develop healthy gambling habits and avoid the negative consequences of gambling addiction.

Remember, responsible gambling starts with understanding the risks and setting limits for yourself. Use tools such as self-exclusion programs and apps for tracking your gambling activity to stay in control. If you struggle with gambling addiction, know that resources and support are available to help you overcome it.

It’s essential to look out for friends and family members struggling with gambling addiction. By approaching the conversation with empathy and providing information on responsible gaming, you can help them make positive changes and seek the support they need.

In conclusion, responsible gambling is an essential aspect of gambling in Australia. Our responsibility as individuals and as a society is to ensure that gambling remains a fun and safe activity for everyone. We can promote Australia’s healthy and enjoyable gambling culture by practising responsible gambling, seeking support when needed, and looking out for others. Responsible gambling is the key to a fulfilling and satisfying experience.