Safer gambling strategies

Safer gambling doesn’t always mean quitting. If you’re not ready to quit gambling, or you just don’t want to, that’s okay.

Gambling can still be a fun pastime and a great way to socially connect with peers, friends, and loved ones – when it’s done safely.

Self-help, like safer gambling strategies, are a popular choice for people who are looking to take back control of their gambling and adapt some healthier habits.

Call 1800 858 858

Remember – gambling is not a way to make money

Remember, gambling providers are running a business designed to make them profits — not to provide you with a reliable income.

You win some and you lose some, but be realistic about your chances. Australians lose $25 billion per year on gambling – that’s the highest of any country in the world.

Gambling can send people into severe financial disarray, including debt and bankruptcy.

Set limits with your money

When you’re gambling, it’s important to set and stick to financial limits.

Decide ahead of time how much money you’ll spend on gambling per week or per month.

Only set aside what you’re happy to lose.

Try the gambling spend calculator

Set limits with your time

It’s easy to lose track of time whne you’re gambling.

Set a time limit in advance – it’s a good idea to set an alarm on your phone.

Don’t set aside time you don’t have. Prioritise your responsibilities, relationships, and getting enough sleep.

“I wasn’t winning money. I was buying time.”

Adam, father who has experienced gambling harm.

Create a budget

A budget can give you an overview of your finances, your priorities, and what you can afford to spend on gambling.

Creating a budget includes:

Looking at your regular income
Calculating regular outgoing payments like rent/mortgage, bills, medication, insurance, food, and subscriptions
Setting aside funds for savings and for emergencies
Making a plan for any debt that needs to be paid off
Understanding how much money you can realistically spend on extracurricular activities, like gambling.

Being on top of your financial situation can help you undersatnd how much you can actually afford to spend on gambling.

Spending within your means can help you avoid the financial risks of gambling.

Our counsellors offer free financial counselling.

Learn more about counselling

Take regular breaks

Gambling for long periods of time can cause mental exhaustion and frustration. You might even be losing out on valuable time with your loved ones, or neglecting core responsibilities.

Regular breaks are essential for maintaining perspective and prioritising what matters.

Taking regular breaks include:

Stepping away for a way, to get some fresh air, or to call a loved one
Using timers or alarms to remind yourself to take a break – it’s easy to lose track of time
Consider taking a week or a month off gambling altogether
Set aside regular days of no screen time or no betting

Safer gambling strategies – sometimes referred to as “responsible gambling” - can improve and protect your

Mental health.
Money and finances.
Relationships with your family, partner and friends.
Performance at work and/or school.

Call 1800 0858 0858

Stay connected to your support network

When you’re trying to change your gambling habits, it’s so important to surround yourself with people who are supportive of your goals and limits.

Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or partner can help you stick to your goals.

It’s natural to feel embarrassed or awkward. But leaning on your support network can make a world of difference when you’re struggling with gambling harm. Your loved ones will likely appreciate your honesty and will be supportive of your bravery to improve your habits.

Learn more about using social support

Be informed
about gambling harm

Gambling harm – commonly referred to as a “gambling problem” or “gambling addiction” – occurs when gambling starts to negatively impact you and your life.

By knowing about the signs, risks, and consequences of gambling harm, you can stay on top of your gambling, notice early on when it’s getting out of hand, and make informed decisions.

Learn more about the signs of gambling harm

Learn more about using signs of gambling harm

Free and confidential
support is available

Call Gambling Help

Call for a free, confidential chat any time, or to book an appointment.

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Online chat

Gambling Help Online connects you with a counsellor to chat with online.

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Locations

Find a Gambling Help Queensland location near you.

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