What does responsible gambling mean?
Responsible gambling means treating a bet as paid entertainment, with a budget and a time limit you set before you start, and knowing where to get help if it stops being fun. Bookmakers build a margin into every price, so over time punters as a group lose. Money you bet on the Cup is the cost of the fun, not an investment.
How do you keep Cup Day betting under control?
These steps keep Cup Day betting under control:
- Set a budget for the whole day before the first race, and do not top it up.
- Set a deposit limit in your betting account. Lowering a limit takes effect straight away; raising one usually comes with a waiting period.
- Do not chase losses on the races after the Cup.
- Bet sober. Alcohol makes it harder to stick to limits.
- Take breaks, and stop when you reach your budget.
What are the warning signs of gambling harm?
Watch for these warning signs in yourself or someone close to you:
- Spending more money or time than planned.
- Chasing losses by betting again to win money back.
- Borrowing money or selling things to gamble.
- Hiding gambling or lying about how much is spent.
- Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to cut down.
- Gambling to escape stress or problems.
Which tools help you stay in control?
| Tool | What it does |
|---|---|
| Deposit limit | Caps how much you can deposit per day, week or month |
| Activity statement | Shows your wins, losses and deposits |
| Time-out | Blocks your account for a short break |
| Self-exclusion | Closes your account for months or years |
| BetStop | Blocks you from every Australian licensed online and phone wagering provider at once |
| Blocking software | Blocks gambling websites and apps on your devices |
| Bank controls | Some banks let you block gambling payments |
What is BetStop?
BetStop is the National Self-Exclusion Register. Registering blocks you from all Australian licensed online and phone wagering providers for the period you choose, from three months to life. It is free and run by the Australian Government.
Where can you get free help?
Free, confidential help is available 24/7:
- Gambling Help Online: 1800 858 858, or online chat, for people who gamble and for their family and friends.
- Lifeline: 13 11 14, for crisis support.
- BetStop: self-exclusion from Australian licensed wagering providers.
How can you help someone else?
Talk calmly and without blame, point them to Gambling Help Online, and protect your own finances, for example by keeping separate accounts. You can contact support services for advice on your own behalf too.