Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Games are based on chance or other outcomes that cannot be predicted with certainty. A previous win does not make another win more likely, and a previous loss does not mean that a win is due. Treat every wager as money that may be lost.

Before you start, decide how much time and money you can comfortably spend. Only use money that is available after essential costs such as rent, bills, food, transport and other commitments have been paid. Never use money set aside for necessities, borrow money to gamble or rely on credit to continue playing.

• Set a gambling budget before you begin and do not increase it during a session.
• Set a time limit and stop when that time has passed.
• Take regular breaks away from the screen.
• Do not gamble when you are upset, tired, angry, intoxicated or under pressure.
• Do not chase losses by increasing stakes or playing for longer.
• Keep gambling separate from your financial responsibilities and everyday spending.
• Remember that gambling outcomes are independent and cannot be controlled by a strategy, pattern or lucky routine.

A win is not a reason to increase your budget, and a loss is not a reason to keep playing. Staying within your original plan is one of the simplest ways to maintain control. Avoid making gambling decisions based on emotions, predictions or the belief that you are entitled to a particular result.

Gambling should not be used as a source of income or as a solution to financial difficulties. If you are worried about money, consider speaking with a qualified financial counsellor instead of attempting to recover losses through further gambling.

Use limits and time-out options

Safer gambling tools can help you keep your play within boundaries that you choose. Depending on the service and applicable requirements, available controls may include deposit limits, spending limits, loss limits, session reminders, activity history, cooling-off periods and self-exclusion. These tools are intended to support informed decisions, but they work best when selected before gambling begins.

Set limits in advance

Choose an amount and period that match your personal circumstances. Consider your weekly or monthly income, essential expenses and other financial commitments. A limit should be affordable even if the full amount is lost. Do not set a limit based on the amount you hope to win, and do not change a limit simply because you have experienced a loss.

Take a cooling-off break

A cooling-off period can provide time away from gambling without requiring a permanent decision. Use a break if you feel distracted by gambling, have exceeded your planned time or budget, or simply want to reset your routine. During a break, avoid opening gambling services or looking for alternative ways to continue playing.

Consider self-exclusion

Self-exclusion is a stronger measure for people who want to stop gambling for a defined period or longer. If you choose self-exclusion, follow the available process carefully and do not attempt to create another account or use another person’s account. Self-exclusion may apply according to the terms of the relevant service and applicable Australian requirements.

If a limit or time-out does not feel sufficient, stop gambling and seek support. You can also ask a trusted person to help you stay accountable by discussing your plan and checking in with you. Someone you trust may also help you review your spending and reduce access to gambling when you need a break.

Recognise signs that gambling may be causing harm

Gambling harm can develop gradually. It may affect finances, relationships, work, study, physical health and emotional wellbeing. You do not need to wait for a serious crisis before taking action. Early support can make it easier to regain control.

Possible warning signs include:

• Spending more time or money gambling than you intended.
• Trying to win back money after a loss.
• Increasing the amount or frequency of bets to achieve the same excitement.
• Feeling restless, irritable or preoccupied when you cannot gamble.
• Hiding gambling activity, losses or account information from family or friends.
• Borrowing money, selling belongings or missing payments because of gambling.
• Using money for rent, bills, food or other necessities to gamble.
• Neglecting work, study, relationships or personal responsibilities.
• Gambling to escape stress, loneliness, sadness or other difficult feelings.
• Feeling regret, shame or anxiety after gambling but continuing to play.
• Attempting to stop or cut back without being able to do so.

One or more of these signs may indicate that it is time to stop and seek help. Be honest with yourself about the effect gambling is having. A trusted family member, friend, financial counsellor or gambling support professional can help you make a practical plan.

If you have lost control

Stop gambling as soon as possible. Do not try to recover losses through further play. Review your recent transactions, remove gambling access where possible, activate a time-out or self-exclusion option, and speak with someone you trust. Consider contacting an Australian gambling support service or qualified counsellor for confidential guidance.

If gambling has contributed to immediate danger, threats, severe distress or thoughts of self-harm, seek urgent help through the appropriate emergency or crisis support service in your area. Your safety is more important than any gambling account or financial loss.

Protect yourself and others

Age and access

Gambling is restricted to people who meet the applicable minimum age and legal requirements. Do not allow children or other unauthorised people to access your account, device or payment methods. Keep login details private, use suitable device security and log out when you finish. If you believe another person has accessed your account, stop using it and follow the relevant account security process.

Account and payment safety

Use only payment methods that belong to you and keep your account information accurate. Do not allow another person to use your account, and do not use another person’s account. Monitor account activity and payment records so that unexpected transactions can be identified promptly. If you notice activity you do not recognise, secure your account and raise the issue through the available support channel.

Privacy and personal information

Cafe Casino handles personal information in accordance with its privacy arrangements and applicable law. Only provide information through the official service and be cautious of messages requesting passwords, security codes or payment details. Cafe Casino will not ask you to disclose sensitive login information through an unverified channel.

Gambling and alcohol or drugs

Alcohol and other substances can affect judgement, attention and decision-making. Do not gamble while intoxicated or when your ability to make careful decisions is affected. If you have been drinking or using substances, close the service and return only when you are clear-headed and able to follow your limits.

Be mindful of how gambling may affect people around you. Do not pressure friends or family members to gamble, lend them money for gambling or encourage them to continue after they have reached their limit. Respect another person’s decision to take a break or stop.

Support, reviews and ongoing responsibility

Responsible gambling is an ongoing process. Review your activity regularly and ask whether your gambling still fits your budget, time and personal goals. If the answer changes, reduce your play or stop. You can use available account controls at any time, subject to the relevant terms and legal requirements.

If you are concerned about your own gambling, or someone else’s gambling, consider speaking with a qualified gambling counsellor or an Australian support service. Support may include confidential counselling, financial guidance, help with self-exclusion and assistance for family members affected by gambling harm. You do not need to manage the situation alone.

Cafe Casino may apply responsible gambling checks, account measures or other safeguards where required by law, regulation or internal procedures. These measures may include requesting information, restricting activity or closing an account. They are designed to support safer participation and compliance, but no online tool can remove all gambling risk.

A practical safer gambling plan

1. Decide your budget and time limit before playing.
2. Keep essential money separate from gambling funds.
3. Use available limits, reminders, cooling-off periods or self-exclusion tools.
4. Stop immediately if you feel pressured to chase losses or hide your activity.
5. Speak with a trusted person or qualified support service when gambling causes concern.
6. Seek urgent assistance if gambling is linked to immediate danger or serious emotional distress.

By choosing to gamble, you accept that losses are possible and that gambling outcomes cannot be guaranteed. The safest approach is to gamble only for entertainment, stay within limits and stop whenever gambling is no longer enjoyable or manageable.

This information is general and does not replace professional financial, legal, medical or counselling advice. If you need assistance, use an appropriate Australian support service or speak with a qualified professional who can consider your circumstances.