Need help right now?
These services are free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day.
Online chat available 24/7 at gamblinghelponline.org.au — no phone call needed.
Signs that gambling may have become a problem
Problem gambling often develops gradually. These are some common signs:
- Spending more than you planned to, or more than you can afford to lose
- Chasing losses — playing more to try to win back money you've lost
- Thinking about gambling often when you're not playing
- Hiding gambling activity from people close to you
- Gambling to escape stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions
- Borrowing money or selling things to fund gambling
- Neglecting work, relationships, or other responsibilities
Self-assessment checklist
Answer honestly — just for yourself.
If you ticked three or more boxes, please consider reaching out to Gambling Help Online (1800 858 858). It's free and confidential.
Practical tools
Deposit limits
All reputable Australian-friendly pokies sites allow you to set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits. Set these before you start playing. Limit reductions take effect immediately; increases are usually delayed 24–72 hours by design.
Self-exclusion
You can self-exclude from individual sites, or use BetStop — Australia's National Self-Exclusion Register — to exclude yourself from all licensed interactive wagering services at once. Register at betstop.gov.au or call 1800 238 786. It's free.
Blocking software
BetBlocker (free), Gamban, and Gamblock can block gambling websites across all your devices at the network level. Effective even when willpower isn't.