Gambling should always be a fun and entertaining activity done in moderation and with due care. But like anything that involves money and emotion, it comes with risks especially when it’s not kept under control. Here in Australia, where gambling is widely accessible and deeply embedded in our culture, it’s important to stay in control, making informed decisions and making responsible choices. The team here at Joe Fortune is on hand with our guide which is designed to help you play it safe, and understand the importance of responsible gambling, how to manage your play, and what to do if gambling becomes too much and ultimately stops being fun.
Tips to Gamble Safely
Responsible gambling means staying in control of how much time and money you spend and making sure that gambling doesn’t negatively impact your life or the lives of those around you.
Here are practical and proven tips to help you learn more about gambling responsibly and what resources are in place to assist should you feel you need to stop or take a break.
Only Gamble What You Can Afford to Lose
The golden rule of gambling is very simple… never gamble with money you need for essentials or that which you can’t afford to lose. That includes rent or mortgage, bills, food, money for family, or important savings. Gambling should always be part of your entertainment budget just like going to the movies, the footy or out for dinner it is not a way to make money or pay debts.
Top Tip: Set a weekly or monthly gambling budget. Once that money is gone, stop playing until the next budgeted period. If you are winning and hit a threshold you should withdraw the money and treat yourself, your mates or family to something special to enjoy the moment.
Avoid Chasing Losses
It can be tempting to keep playing to win back what you’ve lost, but this is one of the quickest ways to lose control. Chasing losses often will lead to even bigger losses bringing stress and financial trouble. The idea that your luck is about to turn is called the gambler’s fallacy and it’s one of the most dangerous mindsets in gambling. Just remember that each spin, card, or bet is completely random and independent of what happened before so there is no such thing as a guarantee that a win is due.
Set Your Limits
Before you start gambling, decide on:
- How much money you’re willing or able to spend without impacting other areas of your life.
- How much time you’ll spend gambling without it becoming antisocial.
- Stick to these limits no matter what.
- Using these tools is a smart way to stay in control. Many Aussie online casinos and betting companies offer tools that allow you to set deposit, loss, or time limits on your account.
Take a Break
It is very easy to lose track of time while gambling, especially online where you can play 24 hours per day and there is no encouragement for natural breaks. Taking regular breaks will help you make clearer decisions and gives you space to assess whether you’re still having fun.
Top Tip:
- Set a timer on your phone for say half an hour and then step away from your device.
- Use this break to either step outside, talk to someone, or get a cup of coffee.
- Never play for hours at a time without stopping and seeing the wood for the trees.
Understand How the Games Work
Before placing a bet, choosing a table or spinning the reels, you should make sure you understand:
- The rules of the game or pokie.
- See what the odds of winning or the RTP is.
- Check out the payouts and any house edge.
Some pokies or online casino games are designed to give a sense of control or near-misses to keep you playing. Recognising this helps you make smarter decisions. Let’s be clear the odds are stacked in favour of the house, as gambling companies, whether online, at a casino or at the TAB are businesses put bluntly and not charities.
Keep Track of Your Gambling Spend
Many people don’t realise how much they’re spending on gambling until they see it in black and white either in their bank account or betting statement. Try keeping a gambling diary or use budgeting apps to monitor what you spend. Some online accounts have activity summaries to show how much you’ve deposited, lost, or wagered over time. Reviewing this information regularly can help you stay honest with yourself.
Don’t Play Under the Influence
Who doesn’t like a cold one of two whilst having a flutter… but you should make sure that whilst gambling you should still be sober enough to know what you’re doing. If you have had a few drinks this can impair your judgment and lead to risky decisions. Whilst this might be fun at the time you’re more likely to bet or play more than you planned and could see you chasing losses with “bet regret” the next day. Even being overly tired or stressed can impact your ability to make rational choices.
Top Tip: It is best to gamble when you’re clear-headed and feeling in control. If you wouldn’t make a big financial decision in your current state, then it is probably not a good time to login to your online casino.
Don’t Be Too Superstitious
Rituals and superstitions, lucky charms, favourite games or special times of day can add a personal touch to your play, but they don’t have any positive effect on the outcome. Gambling games rely on random number generators(RNGs) or chance. No amount of ritual or belief will change the odds or what happens when the next card or spin happens. Believing too deeply in systems or superstitions can lead to chasing wins or ignoring logic. Stay grounded with the facts, not gut feelings.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
If gambling is no longer fun, or it’s causing stress, conflict, or financial strain it’s okay to speak up. Problem gambling is more common than many think, and there is no shame in seeking help. Here are a few warning signs for you to consider:
- Lying about gambling habits.
- Using money required for living costs
- Borrowing money to gamble.
- Gambling to escape problems or conflicts you might have.
- Neglecting responsibilities.
- Feeling anxious, depressed, or guilty about gambling
Top Tip: Across Australia there are a large range of different confidential and free support services available 24/7 depending on where you live and what help you are looking to get.
Self-Exclude
If you feel that gambling is becoming a problem, one powerful step is self-exclusion. This is a formal process that allows you to ban yourself from certain gambling venues or online platforms for a set period or even permanently should you require. During this time, you won’t be able to place bets or access gambling features. Players here at Joe Fortune can get in touch with us to self-exclude and disable their account for a period. We’re here to support you in taking control and keeping your online casino experience as enjoyable and within budget.
Problem Gambling Resources
Help is available and it’s closer and easier to get in touch than you think. Whether you need advice, counselling, or tools to stop gambling, these services offer free and confidential support across Australia:
Gambling Help Online
- Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
- 24/7 online chat and email support
- Self-assessment tools, forums, and information
National Gambling Helpline
- Phone: 1800 858 858 (24/7)
- Free, confidential counselling and support services
- Available across all Australian states and territories
Financial Counselling Australia
- Website: www.financialcounsellingaustralia.org.au
- Free financial advice for those experiencing money issues due to gambling
- Connects you with local support services
State-Based Gambling Help Services
Each state and territory also offers tailored support, such as:
- Victoria: Gambler’s Help (www.responsiblegambling.vic.gov.au)
- NSW: GambleAware (www.gambleaware.nsw.gov.au)
- QLD: Gambling Help Queensland (www.gamblinghelpqld.org.au)
- SA: Gambling Help Services SA (www.gamblinghelpsa.org.au)
- WA, TAS, NT, ACT: Access support through Gambling Help Online or local government sites.
Final Thoughts: Gambling Should Always Be Fun
If you’re gambling, please remember it should be enjoyable, affordable, and balanced with the rest of your life. Play within your limits. Know when to stop. And don’t hesitate to reach out if gambling stops being fun. Being a responsible gambler isn’t about avoiding gambling altogether, it’s just about being smart, self-aware, and knowing when to seek support. If you need any more information our team is on hand to assist 24/7.