Responsible Gaming

Gamble responsibly

Responsible gambling means making informed choices and keeping gambling within limits that are suitable for your circumstances. Before you play, decide how much money and time you are comfortable spending. Treat those amounts as entertainment costs, rather than funds that you expect to recover or increase.

Gambling outcomes are determined by chance, and previous results do not predict future results. There is no guaranteed strategy, system or pattern that can make a game consistently profitable. A win does not mean that another win is more likely, and a loss does not mean that a win is due. Avoid chasing losses or increasing your stakes to try to recover money.

Keep gambling separate from essential spending. Do not use money needed for rent, mortgage payments, bills, food, education, medical costs or other important commitments. Do not gamble with money borrowed from family, friends, lenders or credit providers. If gambling is affecting your ability to meet everyday expenses, stop playing and seek support.

• Set a budget before you start and stop when that budget has been reached.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the screen.
• Keep a record of your deposits, wagers and results so you can see your overall activity clearly.
• Do not gamble when you are upset, stressed, tired, intoxicated or trying to escape personal problems.
• Avoid gambling as a response to a win or loss, and never borrow money to continue playing.
• Balance gambling with work, family, social activities, exercise and other interests.
• Talk openly with someone you trust if gambling starts to concern you.

Gambling is not a source of income and should not be used as an investment. A budget can help you make decisions before emotions or game results influence your choices. If your circumstances change, review your budget and consider taking a break.

Tools to help you stay in control

Account controls can help you manage how often and how much you gamble. Depending on the services available through your account and applicable Australian requirements, you may be able to set deposit, spending, loss or wagering limits, use reality checks, restrict promotional communications, take a temporary break or request self-exclusion.

Set limits before you play

Choose limits that reflect your personal budget, not the amount you hope to win. A limit is most useful when it is set before gambling begins. Once a limit has been reached, do not try to work around it by creating another account, changing your budget or using another payment method. If you cannot keep to a limit, consider a longer break or self-exclusion.

Take a break

A short break can provide space to review your gambling and decide whether it remains enjoyable and affordable. During a break, avoid accessing gambling services and remove reminders or promotions that may encourage you to return before you are ready. Use the time to speak with a trusted person or a qualified support service.

Consider self-exclusion

Self-exclusion is a stronger measure for people who want to stop gambling for a set period or indefinitely. If you request self-exclusion, follow the instructions provided through the relevant account or support process. Do not open or use another account during the exclusion period. Self-exclusion may apply only to the service or services covered by the request, so check the terms carefully and consider whether additional exclusions are appropriate.

Account tools are designed to support your decisions, but they cannot replace personal judgement or professional help. If a control is not available, does not meet your needs or is difficult to use, stop gambling and seek assistance through an appropriate support service.

Recognising when gambling may be a problem

Problem gambling can affect anyone, including people who have gambled without difficulty in the past. It can develop gradually, and you may not notice the impact until it affects your finances, relationships, work, study, health or wellbeing. You do not need to wait for a serious crisis before asking for help.

The following signs may indicate that gambling is becoming difficult to control:

• Spending more time or money gambling than you intended.
• Trying to win back losses or feeling unable to stop after losing.
• Increasing the amount or frequency of gambling to achieve the same excitement.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or becoming restless when you cannot gamble.
• Hiding, minimising or lying about gambling activity, deposits or losses.
• Borrowing money, selling possessions or using essential funds to gamble.
• Missing work, study, family commitments or social activities because of gambling.
• Feeling anxious, guilty, irritable, low or out of control after gambling.
• Returning to gambling after deciding to stop or take a break.
• Using gambling to cope with loneliness, stress, grief, depression or other difficulties.

If any of these signs sound familiar, stop gambling and take practical steps. Log out, remove stored payment details where possible, activate available limits or self-exclusion, and tell someone you trust what is happening. A qualified counsellor or gambling support service can help you understand your options without judgement.

If you are worried about another person, choose a calm time to speak with them. Focus on the behaviour and its effects rather than blaming them. Encourage them to seek professional support, while also setting boundaries to protect your own finances and wellbeing. You cannot control another person’s gambling, but you can decide what support and limits are appropriate for you.

Support, safety and account responsibilities

Support is available across Australia through state and territory gambling help services, qualified counsellors, general practitioners, mental health professionals and community organisations. You can also speak with a trusted friend or family member. Support may include confidential counselling, financial guidance, help with self-exclusion and practical strategies for stopping or reducing gambling.

If gambling has caused urgent financial, emotional or personal danger, seek immediate help from emergency services or an appropriate crisis support service. If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, do not remain alone and seek urgent professional assistance.

Age and account security

Gambling is restricted to people who meet the applicable minimum legal age. Anyone under the relevant legal age must not create, access or use a gambling account. Parents and guardians should use device controls, payment protections and supervision to help prevent children from accessing gambling services.

Keep your account credentials private and use reasonable security measures on your devices. Do not allow another person to gamble through your account, and do not use another person’s account. If you believe that your account has been accessed without permission, stop using it and follow the account support process shown on the website.

Australian requirements and further information

Gambling rules, support options and harm-minimisation requirements can vary between Australian states and territories. You are responsible for understanding the laws that apply to you and for providing accurate information when using the service. Read the applicable terms, privacy information and account guidance before playing.

For questions about limits, breaks, self-exclusion or other responsible gaming measures, use the support or contact options displayed on the Golden Star Casino website. We encourage you to ask for assistance early. Taking a break or requesting help is a practical step towards keeping gambling safe, affordable and under control.