Understanding your rights, the regulations that protect you, and where to find help if gambling stops being fun.
Gambling is a popular form of entertainment across Australia, but it carries real risks when not approached responsibly. Whether you enjoy placing a bet on the weekend footy, spinning the pokies, or wagering through online platforms, it is essential to understand the regulatory framework that exists to protect you, recognise the warning signs of problem gambling, and know exactly where to turn for support.
At Richmond Rovers, we take responsible gambling seriously. We believe that informed players make better decisions, and we are committed to providing the resources and guidance that Australian punters need to stay in control.
Australia has one of the most comprehensive regulatory frameworks for gambling in the world. At the federal level, the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA) is the primary piece of legislation governing online gambling. The IGA prohibits the provision of certain interactive gambling services to Australian residents, including online casino games, online poker, and in-play sports betting conducted over the internet.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is the federal body responsible for enforcing the IGA. Since gaining enhanced enforcement powers in 2017, ACMA has blocked hundreds of illegal offshore gambling websites, working with internet service providers to restrict access and pursuing operators who target Australian consumers without proper licensing.
Each state and territory also maintains its own gambling regulator. These include bodies such as Liquor & Gaming NSW, the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC), the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation in Queensland, and equivalent authorities in every other jurisdiction. These regulators oversee land-based venues, issue licences, and enforce local harm-minimisation measures.
In Australia, you must be at least 18 years of age to participate in any form of gambling. This applies uniformly across all states and territories, covering everything from purchasing lottery tickets and entering a casino to opening an account with an online bookmaker. Licensed operators are required to verify your age and identity before allowing you to place real-money wagers, and penalties apply for providing gambling services to minors.
Problem gambling can develop gradually, and it is not always easy to recognise in yourself or in someone you care about. The following signs may indicate that gambling has moved beyond recreation and into harmful territory:
If you recognise any of these patterns in your own behaviour, it is important to reach out for support. Problem gambling is a recognised condition, and effective help is available free of charge across Australia.
Australia offers extensive support networks for anyone affected by problem gambling. These services are free, confidential, and available around the clock.
Free 24/7 telephone counselling service available across Australia. Speak to a trained counsellor any time, day or night.
Live chat, email support, and self-help resources available 24/7 for anyone affected by gambling.
Information, resources, and referrals for people experiencing gambling harm in Australia.
In August 2023, the Australian Government launched BetStop, the National Self-Exclusion Register. BetStop allows any person in Australia to voluntarily ban themselves from all licensed online wagering services across the country with a single registration.
When you register with BetStop, every licensed Australian wagering operator is legally required to close your active accounts and refuse any new account applications for the duration of your self-exclusion period. You can choose to self-exclude for a minimum of three months, with options extending up to a lifetime ban. Registration is free, and the process can be completed online at betstop.gov.au.
In addition to BetStop, each state and territory operates self-exclusion schemes for land-based venues. These programs allow you to ban yourself from specific pubs, clubs, and casinos in your area. Contact your state or territory regulator or speak to venue staff to arrange self-exclusion from physical gambling locations.
Decide how much you can afford to lose before you start. Treat it as the cost of entertainment, not an investment.
Decide in advance how long you will gamble and stick to it. Set a timer or alarm as a reminder to take a break.
Accept that losing is part of gambling. Walking away after a loss is always a better decision than trying to win it back.
Set deposit limits, loss limits, session time reminders, and cooling-off periods through your betting account settings.
Do not gamble when you are stressed, upset, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Clear-headed decisions are safer decisions.
Gambling should be a social activity, not a solitary habit. If you find yourself gambling alone frequently, reassess your approach.
All licensed Australian wagering operators are required to offer deposit limit tools. These allow you to set a maximum amount that you can deposit into your account over a daily, weekly, or monthly period. Once your limit is reached, you will be unable to deposit further funds until the period resets.
To set deposit limits, log into your betting account and navigate to the responsible gambling or account settings section. You can typically choose from pre-set amounts or enter a custom figure. Reductions to your limit take effect immediately, while increases are subject to a mandatory cooling-off period, usually 72 hours, to prevent impulsive decisions.
Many operators also provide loss limits, wagering limits, and session time limits. We strongly recommend using every available tool to maintain control over your gambling activity.
Gambling should always be treated as entertainment, never as a way to make money. The odds are structured so that the house maintains an edge over time. If gambling is no longer enjoyable, or if it is causing stress in your life, please reach out to one of the support services listed above. Help is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day.
RICHMOND