The short version
Short answer
Gambling is for adults 18 and over. Decide your budget before you play, set deposit limits and time-outs in your casino account, and never chase losses. If it stops feeling like entertainment, call Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858. It is free, confidential and open 24/7.
Every pokie has a built-in house edge, so over time the casino comes out ahead. Treat a deposit like a concert ticket: the cost of a night out, not a way to make money.
18+ only
You must be 18 or older to gamble in Australia, and casinos check your age before paying out. If kids use your phone or computer, keep casino apps and saved logins out of reach.
Tools that keep you in control
| Tool | What it does | Where to find it |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit limit | Caps how much you can add per day, week or month | Account or cashier settings at the casino |
| Time-out | Locks your account for a short break, from a day to a few weeks | Account settings or ask live chat |
| Self-exclusion | Closes your account for a longer period, often six months or more | Casino support team |
| Bank gambling block | Stops card payments to gambling merchants | Most major Australian banking apps |
| BetStop | National self-exclusion from licensed Australian wagering providers | betstop.gov.au |
Set limits when you are calm, not mid-session. Lowering a limit usually works straight away; raising one normally comes with a cooling-off period.
BetStop, the national self-exclusion register
BetStop is run by the Australian Government. One free registration excludes you from every licensed Australian online and phone wagering provider at once, for a period you choose, from three months up to life. Sign-up takes a few minutes at betstop.gov.au.
Pair it with your bank's gambling block and the self-exclusion tools at any casino where you hold an account. Several layers make an impulse much harder to act on.
Signs gambling may be a problem
- Regularly spending more money or time than planned
- Chasing losses with bigger or more frequent deposits
- Borrowing or using bill money to keep playing
- Hiding how much you gamble from family or friends
- Feeling anxious, irritable or low when you are not playing
- Gambling to escape stress, boredom or other problems
- Missing work, sleep or time with family
Recognising one or two of these is a good reason to take a break and talk to someone.
Free help, any time
| Service | Contact | What they offer |
|---|---|---|
| Gambling Help Online | 1800 858 858 or gamblinghelponline.org.au | Free, confidential counselling 24/7 by phone, chat and email |
| Lifeline | 13 11 14 | 24/7 crisis support if you are feeling overwhelmed |
| BetStop | betstop.gov.au | National self-exclusion register |
Family members and friends can call Gambling Help Online too. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Questions? Use our contact page, read more about Pokie Ratings, or return to the home page.
Questions people ask
What is the quickest way to take a break from a casino?
Use the time-out option in your account settings, or ask live chat to apply one. It locks the account for the period you choose, usually a day to a few weeks. For longer, ask for self-exclusion and register with BetStop.
Is Gambling Help Online really free?
Yes. Gambling Help Online is a free, confidential national service available 24 hours a day on 1800 858 858 or through live chat on its website. You do not need to give your name, and family members can use it as well.
Can I cancel a BetStop registration early?
No. Once you register, the exclusion stays in place for the full period you chose, from three months up to life. That is deliberate, so a bad night cannot undo a decision you made with a clear head. You can extend it at any time.
Should I reverse a deposit limit if I am on a winning run?
No. A winning run is exactly when people raise limits and give the money back. Most casinos add a cooling-off period before a higher limit applies for that reason. Withdraw the winnings instead of increasing your budget.
How do I help a friend who gambles too much?
Talk to them calmly and without judgement, and avoid lending money to cover losses. Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 also supports family and friends and can suggest how to start the conversation and look after yourself.