Responsible Gaming

Keep gambling enjoyable and within your limits

Responsible gambling means staying in control of how you play, how much you spend and how much time you give to gambling. Before you start, decide what amount of money and time you can comfortably afford to use for entertainment. Treat this amount as a leisure expense, similar to spending on dining, films or other recreational activities. Once your limit has been reached, stop playing, even if you feel you are close to a win.

Gambling outcomes are determined by chance or by the rules of the game. Previous results do not change the likelihood of future results, and there is no reliable system that can guarantee a win. A loss cannot be recovered by placing larger or more frequent bets. Avoid viewing gambling as a source of income, a solution to debt or a way to resolve personal or financial problems.

Practical steps for safer play

• Set a spending limit before you begin and do not increase it during a session.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the screen.
• Only gamble with money you can afford to lose after essential expenses are covered.
• Keep gambling separate from money needed for rent, bills, food, savings or other commitments.
• Do not borrow money, use credit irresponsibly or sell possessions to fund gambling.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, tired, stressed, intoxicated or trying to escape a problem.
• Do not chase losses by increasing your bets or playing for longer.
• Keep a record of your deposits, withdrawals, wins and losses so your activity remains clear.
• Balance gambling with work, study, family, friends, exercise and other interests.
• Never allow another person to use your account, and do not use another person's account.

A win is not a reason to abandon your limits. Consider withdrawing money you have set aside for other purposes, and remember that a temporary winning streak does not predict future results. If gambling is no longer enjoyable or is affecting other parts of your life, take a break and consider speaking with a qualified support service.

Tools to help you stay in control

Planning your gambling in advance can make it easier to recognise when a session has gone beyond your intentions. Depending on the features available to you, you may be able to use account controls such as deposit limits, loss limits, wagering limits, session reminders, time-outs or self-exclusion. These tools are designed to help you pause, reduce or stop your gambling.

Consider setting limits before playing

1. Choose the amount you can afford to spend over a defined period.
2. Choose how long you want to play during each session.
3. Review your planned limits carefully before confirming them.
4. Do not change a limit while you are emotional, chasing a loss or trying to continue a winning session.
5. Take a break when a reminder appears or when your planned session ends.
6. Review your gambling activity regularly and adjust your habits if your circumstances change.

If you feel that limits are not enough, consider taking a time-out or requesting self-exclusion. Self-exclusion is a stronger measure that prevents or restricts access to gambling for a chosen period or until you decide to seek further assistance, subject to the available process and applicable requirements. Do not open another account or use another gambling service to avoid a restriction. If you request help with a gambling concern, provide accurate information so appropriate safety measures can be considered.

Account controls are most effective when combined with personal planning and support from people you trust. You can also reduce exposure to gambling by removing saved payment details, avoiding gambling-related advertising where possible and spending more time on activities that do not involve gambling.

Recognising when gambling may be causing harm

Problem gambling can develop gradually. A person may initially believe they are in control, but changes in behaviour, mood, finances or relationships can indicate that gambling is becoming harmful. There is no need to wait for a crisis before asking for support. If you are concerned about your gambling, talking to someone early can make it easier to make changes.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more time or money gambling than you planned.
• Increasing your bets to feel the same excitement or to try to recover losses.
• Thinking about gambling frequently when you are working, studying or with family.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when you try to stop or reduce gambling.
• Hiding gambling activity, deposits, losses or debts from people close to you.
• Borrowing money, missing payments or using essential funds to continue gambling.
• Trying to stop or cut down but repeatedly returning to gambling.
• Gambling to cope with stress, loneliness, sadness, anger or other difficult feelings.
• Neglecting work, study, sleep, health, relationships or other responsibilities.
• Feeling guilt, shame, hopelessness or significant distress after gambling.

One warning sign may be enough to justify taking a break and reviewing your habits. Several signs may indicate that you need additional support. Speak honestly with someone you trust, such as a family member, friend, health professional or gambling support counsellor. Confidential help is available in Australia through gambling support services, including national and state-based services. You can search for an appropriate service in your area or contact a health professional for guidance.

If gambling has contributed to debt or financial pressure, consider speaking with a financial counsellor before making further gambling decisions. Do not try to solve financial problems by gambling more. If gambling is connected with severe distress or thoughts of self-harm, seek urgent assistance through emergency services or a qualified crisis support service in your area.

Protecting yourself and others

Online gambling accounts should be used only by the verified account holder. Keep your login details, payment information and devices secure. Do not share passwords or allow someone else to place bets through your account. If you believe another person has accessed your account or you are unable to control your gambling activity, stop playing and contact the relevant support channel through the website.

Young people and vulnerable people

Gambling is not suitable for children or people who are not legally permitted to gamble in their jurisdiction. Adults should take reasonable steps to prevent children and other unauthorised people from accessing gambling accounts, devices or payment methods. Keep account credentials private, use available device controls and do not leave a logged-in account unattended.

Some people may be more vulnerable to gambling harm because of financial stress, mental health concerns, substance use, social isolation or previous gambling problems. If you or someone close to you may be vulnerable, stronger controls or complete exclusion from gambling may be the safest option. Support is available for family members and friends who are affected by another person's gambling, not only for the person who gambles.

Our approach

Winshark Casino promotes informed and responsible participation. We may provide information about safer gambling, account controls and support options so players can make decisions with a clear understanding of the risks. Where a player raises a concern, responsible gaming measures may be discussed in accordance with the applicable account process and legal requirements.

Responsible gambling information is general in nature and is not financial, legal or medical advice. Gambling involves the risk of losing money. Please check the rules and requirements that apply to you in Australia and in your state or territory. If you are unsure whether gambling is right for you, choose not to gamble and seek independent advice.