Responsible Gaming

Gamble for entertainment, not income

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Games are designed for entertainment and outcomes are determined by chance or other game rules. Previous results do not predict future results, and a losing session does not make a win more likely. Avoid viewing gambling as an investment, a source of regular income or a way to recover money that has already been lost.

Before starting, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat this amount as an entertainment expense, similar to spending on dining, sport or other leisure activities. Once your planned budget has been used, stop playing. Never use rent, mortgage payments, household bills, loan repayments, education costs or money needed for everyday living.

• Only gamble with your own money and never borrow to play.
• Set a spending limit before each session and keep to it.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from gambling.
• Avoid gambling when you are upset, stressed, tired or affected by alcohol or other drugs.
• Do not chase losses by increasing your stakes or playing for longer.
• Keep gambling separate from important financial commitments.
• Remember that taking a break or choosing not to gamble is always an appropriate option.

It can help to discuss your budget and gambling habits with someone you trust. An honest conversation with a partner, family member or friend may provide useful perspective and support. You can also seek independent advice before gambling if you are unsure whether it fits within your circumstances.

Tools for safer play

Personal limits can help you maintain control over your gambling activity. Depending on the features available to you, you may be able to set limits for deposits, spending, losses, session time or account activity. Choose limits that reflect your real budget, not an amount based on what you hope to win. Limits are most effective when they are set before you begin playing.

Consider using the following controls

• Deposit limits that restrict the amount added to your account over a selected period.
• Loss or spending limits that help prevent gambling beyond your planned budget.
• Time reminders or session limits to encourage regular breaks.
• Temporary account breaks when you want to step away for a defined period.
• Self-exclusion when you need to stop gambling for a longer period.
• Account and transaction history so you can review your activity and spending.

Read the information shown when selecting a limit, break or exclusion option so you understand how it works. Some changes may take effect immediately, while others may be subject to processing or other applicable requirements. If you request a restriction, do not attempt to avoid it by opening or using another account. Ask for assistance if you are unsure which option is suitable.

Responsible gambling tools are designed to support your decisions, but they cannot remove all risk. You remain responsible for monitoring your behaviour, staying within your means and stopping when gambling is no longer enjoyable or manageable. Consider using banking controls, device settings or budgeting tools alongside any account features.

Recognising signs of gambling harm

Gambling harm can develop gradually and may affect finances, relationships, work, study, health and emotional wellbeing. Anyone can experience difficulties with gambling, regardless of age, income or previous experience. Noticing a warning sign does not mean you have a diagnosis, but it is a reason to pause and consider getting support.

Possible warning signs include

• Spending more money or time gambling than you intended.
• Trying to win back losses by gambling more often or with larger amounts.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when attempting to stop.
• Hiding gambling activity or being dishonest about time or money spent.
• Borrowing money, selling belongings or using credit to gamble.
• Missing bills, work, study, family activities or other responsibilities.
• Thinking about gambling frequently or finding it difficult to concentrate on other things.
• Gambling to escape stress, sadness, loneliness or other difficult feelings.
• Continuing to gamble despite conflict, financial pressure or negative consequences.
• Feeling regret, shame or distress after gambling, but returning to play.

If any of these signs feel familiar, stop gambling and take a break. Review your recent activity, remove access to available gambling funds where possible and speak with someone you trust. You do not need to wait for a serious problem before seeking help. Early support can make it easier to regain control.

If someone close to you may be experiencing gambling harm, approach the conversation calmly and without blame. Explain what you have noticed, listen to their concerns and encourage them to seek professional support. Protect shared finances where appropriate, and obtain independent advice about your own wellbeing and financial position.

Getting support and taking a break

Professional and confidential support is available to people affected by gambling, including family members and friends. In Australia, you can contact Gambling Help Online or a gambling counselling service in your state or territory. These services can provide information, counselling, practical strategies and referrals. You may also speak with your general practitioner or another qualified health professional about the effect gambling is having on your wellbeing.

If gambling is causing immediate financial stress, consider contacting a free financial counselling service for independent guidance. A financial counsellor may help you understand your options, plan essential expenses and manage conversations about debt. Do not rely on further gambling to address financial difficulty.

You can request a temporary break or self-exclusion where those options are available. During a break, avoid gambling through other websites, applications or accounts. Remove saved payment details, reduce access to gambling advertising and ask a trusted person to support your decision. A break is an opportunity to reflect on your habits and obtain help, not a strategy for returning to play with larger amounts.

Pelican Casino may take steps to support safer gambling and may ask questions about account activity where appropriate. We may provide information about available limits, breaks, self-exclusion and support services. Any request concerning responsible gaming should be made through the available account or support channels. As contact details and service options may change, use the current information displayed on the website.

If you feel at immediate risk of harming yourself or someone else, contact emergency services or an urgent crisis support service in Australia. Your safety comes first. Gambling should never come before your health, relationships, financial security or responsibilities.