Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment, not income

Online gambling involves financial risk. There is no guaranteed way to win, and past results do not predict future results. A game may produce a win or a loss at any time, regardless of how long you have been playing or what happened in previous rounds. Do not chase losses, increase your spending to try to recover money, or rely on gambling to pay bills and other essential expenses.

Before you play, decide how much time and money you can comfortably spend. Only use money that is available after your everyday needs and financial commitments have been met. A gambling budget should not include rent, mortgage payments, household bills, food, school costs, loan repayments, savings, emergency funds or money borrowed from another person.

Set a clear stopping point before you begin. When you reach your time or spending limit, stop playing, whether you are winning or losing. Avoid gambling when you are upset, stressed, tired, under the influence of alcohol or other substances, or trying to escape from personal problems. Taking regular breaks can help you remain aware of how long you have been playing and how much you have spent.

• Think of gambling as a paid form of entertainment, with no expectation of profit.
• Set a spending amount and time limit before each session.
• Keep track of deposits, wagers, wins and losses over time.
• Never borrow money or sell belongings to fund gambling.
• Do not use gambling to recover previous losses.
• Keep gambling separate from essential household and personal expenses.
• Take regular breaks and stop when your planned session ends.

Tools to help you stay in control

Limits and account controls can help you manage your gambling activity. Consider using the available responsible gaming settings before you start playing. Depending on the account and services available to you, these controls may include deposit limits, loss or wagering limits, session reminders, time limits, cooling-off periods and account self-exclusion.

A limit works best when it is chosen in advance and treated as a firm boundary. Select an amount and period that reflect your personal budget, not the amount you hope to win. If you reach a limit, do not attempt to work around it by opening another account, changing your settings repeatedly or asking someone else to gamble on your behalf.

A cooling-off break can provide time away from gambling without making a permanent decision. Self-exclusion is a stronger account restriction intended for people who want to stop gambling for a set period or longer. If you request self-exclusion, do not create or use another account to continue playing. Read the relevant account instructions carefully, as restrictions and available options may depend on the service and the laws that apply to you.

Practical steps before and during play

1. Decide your maximum spend and playing time before opening a game.
2. Use the account tools available to set or review your limits.
3. Keep gambling notifications and promotional messages to a level that does not encourage unwanted play.
4. Do not increase your limits while you are playing or after a loss.
5. End the session when your limit is reached and take a meaningful break.
6. Review your activity regularly and make changes if your gambling is becoming more frequent or expensive.

If you are unable to keep to a limit, or you feel that account controls are not enough, contact the available support channel through the website and ask about further account restrictions or self-exclusion. You do not need to wait until a serious problem develops before asking for help.

Recognising gambling harm

Gambling harm can affect finances, relationships, work, study, physical health and emotional wellbeing. It may develop gradually, and a person may not recognise the change straight away. A single sign does not necessarily mean that someone has a gambling problem, but repeated signs or increasing concern should be taken seriously.

• Spending more money or time gambling than you intended.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or finding it difficult to focus on other activities.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when trying to cut back or stop.
• Chasing losses or gambling with larger amounts to achieve the same excitement.
• Hiding gambling activity, losses, account information or transactions from family and friends.
• Borrowing money, using credit or missing bills because of gambling.
• Selling possessions or using savings intended for other purposes.
• Neglecting work, study, family, health or other responsibilities.
• Gambling to cope with stress, loneliness, sadness, anxiety or other difficult feelings.
• Trying to stop several times but returning to gambling.
• Feeling guilt, shame, hopelessness or distress after gambling.

If any of these signs sound familiar, stop and review your gambling as soon as possible. Consider taking a cooling-off break or requesting self-exclusion. Tell someone you trust what is happening and ask them to help you stay accountable. An independent gambling support service, counsellor, psychologist, financial counsellor or medical professional can help you understand your options and make a plan.

You can also support a friend or family member by listening without judgement, encouraging professional help and avoiding arguments about individual wins or losses. Do not provide money to cover gambling debts or help someone bypass account restrictions. If there is an immediate risk to a person's safety, contact emergency services or seek urgent assistance in your area.

Support, account safety and player protections

If you have concerns about your gambling, use the responsible gaming or account support options available on the website. You can ask about limits, breaks, self-exclusion and other controls. Support staff may explain the available process, but they cannot guarantee gambling outcomes or recover money lost through gambling.

Independent support is also available in Australia through gambling help services, health professionals, financial counsellors and community organisations. These services can provide confidential information, counselling, financial guidance and support for affected family members. Search for an appropriate Australian gambling support service in your state or territory, or speak with your doctor or another qualified professional.

Protect your account by keeping your login details private and using security features where available. Do not allow another person to use your account, and do not use another person's account. Contact the website's support team if you believe your account has been accessed by someone else, if your personal information may be at risk, or if you need help applying a gambling restriction.

Age and legal requirements

Gambling is only for people who meet the applicable minimum age and legal requirements. Do not gamble if you are under the legal age, if gambling is unlawful where you are located, or if you are prohibited from using the service. Parents and guardians should take steps to prevent children from accessing gambling accounts, devices and payment methods.

Use of 9pokies Casino remains your responsibility. Before playing, make sure you understand the terms that apply to your account and the rules applicable in your location. If you are unsure whether online gambling is permitted where you are, obtain independent legal guidance before using the service.

Responsible gaming is an ongoing choice. Check your limits regularly, take breaks, and act early if gambling begins to affect your money, time, relationships or wellbeing. Asking for help is a practical step towards regaining control, and you do not need to face gambling concerns alone.