Responsible Gaming

Gamble responsibly

Gambling can be enjoyable when it is approached as a leisure activity. It can also carry financial, emotional and social risks. Before you play, consider how gambling fits within your budget and whether you are comfortable with the possible outcome. There is no guaranteed way to win, and past results do not predict future results.

Instant Casino encourages all players to make informed decisions and to remain in control of their gambling. Never gamble with money needed for rent, bills, food, education, medical care or other essential expenses. Do not borrow money, use credit that you cannot repay or sell possessions to fund gambling.

• Treat gambling as entertainment rather than an investment or source of income.
• Set a budget before you start and do not exceed it.
• Decide how much time you are comfortable spending and take regular breaks.
• Keep track of deposits, wagers and losses rather than relying on memory.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, stressed, tired or under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Do not chase losses by increasing your bets or continuing to play after reaching your limit.
• Remember that games are based on chance and that winning is never guaranteed.
• Keep your gambling private from children and do not allow anyone under the legal gambling age to use your account.

A useful personal rule is to decide your maximum spend before playing and to stop when that amount has been reached. Trying to recover losses can lead to larger losses and may make it harder to make clear decisions. If gambling no longer feels enjoyable or manageable, stop playing and seek support.

Tools to help you stay in control

Depending on the options available on your account, you may be able to use responsible gambling controls to manage your activity. These tools are intended to support your decisions and should be considered before problems develop. A limit is most effective when it is realistic, set in advance and treated as a firm boundary.

Deposit and spending limits

A deposit or spending limit can restrict the amount you add or use over a selected period. Choose an amount that fits comfortably within your disposable entertainment budget. Setting a limit lower than your usual spending can be a helpful way to reduce your gambling gradually. Do not increase a limit simply because you have experienced a loss or want to continue playing.

Time reminders and breaks

Regular breaks can help you review how long you have been playing and whether you are still making decisions comfortably. Use reminders where available, step away from the screen and take time to do something unrelated to gambling. A break can also help reduce impulsive decisions after a win or loss.

Temporary time-outs

If you want to stop gambling for a short period, a temporary time-out may help you create distance from your account. Use the account settings or support process available to you. During a time-out, avoid opening another account or using another person’s account to continue gambling.

Self-exclusion

Self-exclusion is a stronger step for people who want to stop gambling for a specified period or longer. If you choose self-exclusion, follow the available account process and provide any information requested. You should also consider blocking gambling websites and applications, removing saved payment methods and asking a trusted person to support you.

Responsible gambling tools do not replace professional advice. If you feel unable to control your gambling, use a time-out or self-exclusion option and seek assistance as soon as possible. Support is available whether you have experienced a small concern or a serious problem.

Recognising when gambling may be a problem

Problem gambling can affect people in different ways. It is not defined only by the amount of money lost. The important question is whether gambling is affecting your choices, finances, relationships, work, study, health or general wellbeing. You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help.

• Spending more money or time gambling than you intended.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or finding it difficult to concentrate on other activities.
• Trying to cut back or stop but being unable to do so.
• Chasing losses or believing that a win is needed to fix financial problems.
• Hiding gambling, deposits, losses or account activity from family or friends.
• Borrowing money, missing bills or selling belongings because of gambling.
• Feeling anxious, guilty, irritable or low after gambling.
• Gambling to escape stress, loneliness, boredom or other difficult feelings.
• Arguing with people close to you because of gambling.
• Neglecting work, study, family responsibilities, sleep or personal care.
• Using multiple accounts or gambling services to avoid limits or continue playing.
• Feeling that gambling is no longer a choice but something you must do.

If any of these signs sound familiar, stop and take the concern seriously. Do not try to manage the situation by chasing losses or hiding the problem. Consider telling someone you trust, restricting access to gambling and contacting a qualified support service. Speaking with a counsellor can help you understand what is happening and plan practical next steps without judgement.

Gambling harm can also affect family members, friends and other people close to the person gambling. If someone else’s gambling is affecting you, support is available for you too. You do not have to control another person’s behaviour in order to seek advice or protect your own finances and wellbeing.

Getting help in Australia

If you are concerned about your gambling, contact a gambling support service in your state or territory. Australian gambling-help services can provide confidential information, counselling and practical guidance for people who gamble and for affected family members or friends. Gambling Help Online is also an Australian support option that provides information and online assistance.

You can also speak with your general practitioner, a qualified counsellor or another health professional. They can help you discuss gambling in confidence and connect you with suitable services. Consider asking a trusted person to help you create a plan, review your budget, remove access to gambling and attend an appointment.

1. Stop gambling and avoid trying to recover losses.
2. Use available account limits, a time-out or self-exclusion option.
3. Tell a trusted person what is happening.
4. Review your finances and protect money needed for essential expenses.
5. Contact a gambling support service or health professional for advice.
6. Seek urgent help if gambling has contributed to thoughts of self-harm, harm to others or an immediate safety risk.

If there is an immediate danger to you or another person, contact emergency services in Australia. If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, seek urgent assistance from an appropriate crisis or health service. You deserve support, and asking for help is a responsible step.

Instant Casino may provide account assistance and information about available safer gambling options, but we cannot provide medical, financial or psychological advice. Our responsible gaming information is intended to help you make informed choices. Please review the applicable account terms and use the support options available through your account if you need help applying a restriction or closing access to gambling.