Responsible Gaming

Gambling is a form of entertainment that involves risk. There is no guaranteed way to win, and past results do not predict future results. Every game has its own rules and outcomes are determined by chance or by the relevant game mechanics. A winning streak does not mean that another win is due, and a loss does not make a win more likely. Avoid systems or strategies that claim to guarantee success.

Before opening a game or placing a bet, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat that amount as an entertainment cost. Once your budget or time limit has been reached, stop playing, even if you are winning or trying to recover a loss. Never use money intended for rent, bills, food, education, savings or other essential needs.

• Set a personal spending budget before you play and keep to it.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the screen.
• Keep gambling separate from everyday expenses and financial commitments.
• Do not chase losses or increase stakes to try to win money back.
• Do not gamble when you are upset, stressed, tired, intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
• Avoid borrowing money, using credit or selling possessions to fund gambling.
• Consider gambling only when it fits comfortably within your disposable income.
• Keep your account details secure and do not allow other people to use your account.
• Review your gambling habits regularly and stop if the activity is no longer enjoyable.

It can also help to tell someone you trust about your limits. An independent person may notice changes in your behaviour and provide encouragement when you decide to take a break. Responsible gambling is an ongoing choice, and asking for support early is a practical step rather than a failure.

Depending on the features available to your account, you may be able to use tools designed to support informed play. These can include deposit, spending, loss or wagering limits, session reminders, breaks, temporary account restrictions and self-exclusion. A limit is most effective when it is set before you start playing and is not changed simply because you are close to reaching it.

Deposits and spending limits

A deposit or spending limit can help you control the amount added to or used in your account over a selected period. Choose an amount that is affordable and realistic. If a limit is increased, a delay may apply before the change takes effect. Limits are not a substitute for a personal budget, so keep track of your overall gambling spend, including activity with other providers.

Time reminders and breaks

Regular breaks can help you remain aware of how long you have been playing. Step away from the device, do something unrelated to gambling and reassess whether you still want to continue. A temporary break can be useful when you feel distracted, are spending more than planned or want to reset your routine.

Self-exclusion

Self-exclusion is a stronger measure for people who want to stop gambling for a defined period or indefinitely. If you choose self-exclusion, do not attempt to open another account or use another person's account. Where appropriate, access may be restricted and marketing communications may be stopped. Self-exclusion should be treated seriously and cannot be used as a method for managing an active bet or avoiding legitimate account checks.

If you want to use a limit, take a break, close your account or ask about available responsible gambling controls, use the relevant account settings or contact the operator through the support channel shown on the website. Do not delay if you feel that gambling is becoming difficult to control.

Problem gambling can affect anyone, regardless of age, income or experience. It may develop gradually, and people do not always recognise the change immediately. Consider taking a break and seeking support if gambling is affecting your mood, relationships, work, study, health or finances.

• You spend more time or money gambling than you intended.
• You repeatedly try to cut back or stop but find it difficult.
• You chase losses or gamble with money needed for ordinary expenses.
• You hide gambling activity, deposits, losses or debts from family and friends.
• You borrow money, use credit or sell belongings to continue gambling.
• You feel restless, irritable or anxious when you try to stop.
• You think about gambling frequently or plan your day around it.
• You gamble to escape stress, sadness, loneliness or other difficult feelings.
• Gambling causes arguments, missed responsibilities, poor performance or relationship problems.
• You return to gambling after deciding to take a break.
• You feel hopeless, ashamed or distressed because of gambling.

One sign may be enough to justify a pause and a conversation with someone you trust. You do not need to wait until gambling has caused serious harm before asking for help. Keep records of deposits and withdrawals, review your bank statements and remove saved payment methods if doing so makes it easier to follow your budget.

If gambling has contributed to financial difficulty, avoid taking out new loans to repay gambling-related debts. Consider speaking with a qualified financial counsellor about your options. A counsellor or health professional can also help you understand the reasons behind your gambling and develop a plan that suits your circumstances.

Support is available in Australia from gambling-help services, health professionals, financial counsellors and community organisations. You can seek confidential guidance about reducing or stopping gambling, managing urges, addressing financial concerns and supporting a family member. Search for an Australian gambling support service in your state or territory, or speak with your doctor or another qualified health professional.

If you feel in immediate danger, have thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, or cannot keep yourself safe, contact emergency services or attend the nearest emergency department. If you are supporting someone who is distressed, stay with them where it is safe to do so and help them access urgent professional assistance.

Age and account use

Gambling is not for children or young people. Only eligible adults should use an account, and account access must not be shared. Parents and guardians should take steps to prevent children from accessing gambling websites and devices, including using device controls, keeping passwords private and supervising shared technology.

Marketing and personal choices

Promotional messages can encourage people to return to a website, but you should never feel obliged to participate. If gambling advertising or promotional communication is not helpful for you, use the available unsubscribe or communication preference controls. A promotion should not influence you to spend more than your planned budget or to continue after you have decided to stop.

Account closure and review

You may decide that closing your account is the right option. Before doing so, review any account information, open activity and applicable account terms. If you are closing your account because gambling is becoming difficult to control, consider requesting self-exclusion rather than simply opening another account later. Keep your decision private from no one; telling a trusted person can make it easier to maintain.

Uptown Casino encourages every player to remain informed, set boundaries and ask for assistance early. This information is general and is not medical, financial or legal advice. Responsible gambling controls may vary by account and location, so review the information available on the website and seek independent advice where needed.