Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment

Gambling involves risk and outcomes are determined by chance or other factors outside your control. No strategy can guarantee a win, and previous results do not determine what happens next. A win does not mean that another win is more likely, while a loss does not create an obligation or opportunity to keep playing until your money is recovered.

Before you begin, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat that amount as an entertainment expense rather than an investment. Never use money set aside for rent, bills, food, education, savings or other essential commitments. Avoid borrowing money, using credit to gamble or selling personal belongings to fund gambling.

Practical ways to stay in control

• Set a spending limit before you start and stop when that limit is reached.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from gambling.
• Keep gambling separate from everyday household spending.
• Do not chase losses or increase your stakes because you are frustrated.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, tired, stressed or affected by alcohol or other substances.
• Do not gamble to celebrate, escape problems or change your mood.
• Keep track of deposits, withdrawals, wins, losses and the time you spend gambling.
• Remember that gambling is not a reliable way to earn income.

It can also help to discuss your limits with someone you trust. An independent person may notice changes in your behaviour that you have not recognised yourself. If gambling no longer feels enjoyable or manageable, stop and consider taking a break before making any further deposits or bets.

Recognise when gambling may be a problem

Problem gambling can affect people in different ways. It may develop gradually, and you do not need to experience serious financial difficulties before asking for help. Paying attention to changes in your thoughts, feelings, relationships and spending can help you act early.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you originally planned.
• Trying to win back money after a loss or feeling unable to stop during a session.
• Increasing your stakes to achieve the same level of excitement.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when you try to cut down.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or allowing it to interfere with work, study, sleep or family time.
• Hiding your gambling, losses or account activity from family and friends.
• Borrowing money, missing payments or using essential funds to continue gambling.
• Feeling guilty, ashamed, low or stressed because of your gambling.
• Neglecting personal responsibilities or withdrawing from people and activities you usually enjoy.
• Trying to stop or reduce gambling but returning to it repeatedly.

One warning sign may be enough reason to pause and review your habits. Several signs can indicate that extra support would be useful. You do not need to wait for a crisis, reach a particular loss amount or receive a diagnosis before speaking with a qualified support service, health professional or trusted person.

If gambling is causing immediate financial, emotional or personal danger, stop gambling and seek urgent assistance from an appropriate emergency or support service in your area. If you are worried about someone else, raise the subject calmly, avoid judgement and encourage them to access professional advice.

Tools to help you stay in control

Uptown Casino may provide account features designed to support safer gambling. The tools available to you may depend on the account, product and applicable requirements. Review the available settings before you play and choose limits that reflect your personal budget, not an amount you hope to win.

Limits and breaks

• Deposit or spending limits can help control how much money is added to an account over a selected period.
• Time or session reminders can help you notice how long you have been playing.
• A temporary break can provide time away from gambling and help you reassess your habits.
• Self-exclusion can restrict access for a chosen period or longer, depending on the available process and applicable requirements.
• Account closure may be considered when you want to stop using the service.

A limit is most effective when it is set before gambling begins. Do not treat a limit as a target to spend, and do not attempt to work around a restriction by opening another account or using another person’s account. Account sharing can create safety, privacy and verification risks and may breach applicable terms.

If you request a break, self-exclusion or account closure, follow the instructions provided through the relevant account or support process. Do not request removal of a restriction simply because you have changed your mind. If gambling is difficult to control, a longer break combined with independent support may be more appropriate than a short pause.

Protect your account and finances

Keep your login details private, use secure devices and review account activity regularly. Do not allow another person to gamble through your account. If you notice activity you do not recognise, stop using the account and raise the issue through the available support channel. Keep records of your gambling activity so you can make informed decisions about your spending.

Getting help and support

Professional support can help you understand your gambling, manage urges and address related financial or emotional issues. You can speak with a qualified gambling counsellor, GP, mental health professional, financial counsellor or a recognised gambling support service in Australia. Support may also be available for partners, family members and friends affected by another person’s gambling.

When looking for help, choose a service that is independent, confidential and experienced in gambling-related concerns. You can search for Australian gambling support through official government, health or community service websites. If you prefer, ask a doctor or local health service to recommend an appropriate provider. You do not have to explain everything perfectly; describing what has been happening is a useful first step.

A simple plan for taking a break

1. Stop gambling and avoid making further deposits or bets while you decide what support you need.
2. Tell a trusted person that you are taking a break and ask them to help you stay accountable.
3. Review your recent gambling activity, including the time and money involved.
4. Use available limits, break or self-exclusion settings and avoid trying to bypass them.
5. Contact an independent support service or qualified professional for advice.
6. Address practical issues such as unpaid bills, debt, access to money and financial planning.
7. Reassess your wellbeing and seek further help if urges or distress continue.

Uptown Casino does not present gambling as a source of income and cannot remove the risks associated with gambling. The safest choice for someone experiencing gambling harm may be to stop gambling altogether. If you choose to gamble, do so only where it is lawful, follow the applicable rules and age requirements, and make responsible decisions about your time and money.