Responsible Gaming

Gambling involves risk and outcomes are determined by chance or the rules of the game. No strategy, pattern, system or prediction can guarantee a win. Previous results do not change the likelihood of future results, and a losing session does not mean that a win is due. You should only gamble with money you can afford to lose without affecting your normal living costs, savings, debts or responsibilities.

Yellowbat Casino encourages players to keep gambling separate from essential spending. Rent, mortgage payments, bills, food, education, medical costs and other financial commitments should always come first. Do not borrow money, use credit intended for essential expenses or sell personal possessions to fund gambling. Do not chase losses by increasing your stakes or playing for longer in an attempt to recover money.

Gambling should not be used as a response to stress, loneliness, boredom, anger, sadness or other emotional difficulties. Alcohol and other substances can affect judgement and make it harder to follow your limits, so avoid gambling when your decision-making may be impaired. It can also help to avoid gambling when you are tired, upset or distracted.

Before you start

• Decide how much money you can afford to lose and treat that amount as the cost of entertainment.
• Decide how long you intend to play before you begin.
• Keep a record of your deposits, withdrawals, wins and losses so you understand your overall activity.
• Use money that is available for entertainment rather than money set aside for household or personal needs.
• Check that gambling is lawful where you are located and that you meet the applicable minimum legal age.
• Tell yourself in advance that a loss is a loss, rather than an amount that must be won back.

Australian gambling rules can vary according to the product, location and state or territory. Access to a service or game may also depend on where you are located and whether you satisfy applicable legal and account requirements. You are responsible for complying with the laws that apply to you. If you are unsure whether a particular activity is lawful, obtain independent legal or regulatory guidance before participating.

Problem gambling can develop gradually. You do not need to wait until there is a major financial loss before taking action. The following signs may indicate that gambling is becoming difficult to control:

• Spending more time or money gambling than you intended.
• Trying to win back losses by placing larger or more frequent bets.
• Thinking about gambling throughout the day or finding it difficult to concentrate on other activities.
• Feeling restless, irritable or uncomfortable when you try to stop.
• Hiding gambling activity, deposits, losses or account statements from family, friends or colleagues.
• Borrowing money, using credit or selling items to continue gambling.
• Missing work, study, appointments, sleep, meals or family commitments because of gambling.
• Arguing with people close to you about your gambling or withdrawing from normal activities.
• Gambling to escape stress, low mood or other personal problems.
• Continuing to gamble after deciding to stop or after a limit has been reached.
• Feeling regret, shame or anxiety after gambling but returning to play soon afterwards.
• Having difficulty paying bills or meeting other financial responsibilities because of gambling.

One warning sign can be enough to justify a pause. You do not have to prove that you have a gambling problem before asking for help. Consider stopping play, withdrawing from gambling activity where appropriate, reviewing your finances and speaking with someone you trust. A trusted person can help you stay accountable and notice changes that may be difficult to recognise yourself.

If gambling is affecting someone you know

Gambling can affect partners, family members, friends and colleagues as well as the person who plays. If someone else's gambling is causing stress or financial harm, protect your own finances and personal information. Do not feel obliged to provide money to cover gambling losses or debts. Set clear boundaries, discuss the impact calmly and encourage the person to seek independent help. Support is also available for people affected by another person's gambling.

If there is immediate danger, a serious threat to safety or a mental health crisis, contact the appropriate emergency or crisis service in your location. Gambling-related stress can feel overwhelming, but professional assistance and practical financial support can help.