Understanding Problem Gambling
Gambling should be a form of entertainment, not a way to make money or escape problems. Problem gambling occurs when gambling behaviour causes harm to you, your family, or your community. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.
The good news is that help is available, and recovery is possible. Recognising the warning signs early is the first step toward getting support.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Spending more money or time gambling than you can afford
Chasing losses by gambling more to win back money
Lying to family or friends about gambling habits
Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or depression
Neglecting work, family, or personal responsibilities
Borrowing money or selling possessions to gamble
Feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop
Thinking about gambling constantly throughout the day
Tips for Gambling Safely
If you choose to gamble, following these guidelines can help keep it as entertainment rather than a problem. Remember, there's no guaranteed way to win at pokies or any gambling game – the house always has an edge.
- ✓ Set a budget before you start – Decide how much you can afford to lose and stick to it. Leave cards at home if needed.
- ✓ Set a time limit – Decide how long you'll play and use alarms or reminders to stick to it.
- ✓ Never chase losses – If you've lost your budget, stop. Trying to win it back usually leads to bigger losses.
- ✓ Balance gambling with other activities – Make sure gambling doesn't become your only hobby or social outlet.
- ✓ Don't gamble when emotional – Avoid playing when stressed, angry, lonely, or depressed.
- ✓ Take regular breaks – Step away from the game regularly to clear your head and reassess.
- ✓ Understand the odds – Accept that losing is part of gambling. Pokies are designed to pay back less than they take in.
- ✓ Don't borrow to gamble – Only gamble with money you have, never with credit or loans.
Australian Support Services
Gambling Help Online
24/7 telephone and online counselling for gambling problems. Free and confidential.
1800 858 858Lifeline Australia
Crisis support and suicide prevention services available 24/7 across Australia.
13 11 14Gamblers Anonymous
Peer support meetings across Australia for those seeking recovery from gambling addiction.
gaaustralia.org.auRelationships Australia
Support for individuals and families affected by gambling. Counselling and mediation services.
1300 364 277Financial Counselling
Free financial counselling to help manage debt and money problems related to gambling.
1800 007 007BetStop Register
Australia's national self-exclusion register for online gambling. Free to use.
betstop.gov.auSelf-Exclusion Options
Self-exclusion programs allow you to voluntarily ban yourself from gambling venues or online platforms. These programs can be an effective tool if you're struggling to control your gambling.
Our Commitment
At GoPokie, we believe that responsible gaming is everyone's responsibility. We provide educational content to help players make informed decisions and prominently display resources for those who need support. We never encourage gambling as a way to make money and always remind players that the house edge means long-term losses are expected.