Responsible Gaming

Gambling should remain entertainment

Casino games are games of chance. Outcomes are determined by chance, and past results do not predict future results. A win is never guaranteed, and no strategy can remove the risk of losing money. For this reason, gambling should only take place with money you can comfortably afford to lose after essential costs have been covered.

Players in Australia must meet the applicable minimum age requirement before gambling. If you are under the legal gambling age, you must not create an account, deposit funds or play casino games. Adults should also take reasonable steps to prevent children and other unauthorised people from accessing gambling accounts and devices.

A responsible approach includes deciding in advance how much time and money you are prepared to spend. Treat that amount as the cost of entertainment, rather than as an investment. Do not use rent, household bills, loan repayments, emergency savings or money set aside for necessities to gamble.

• Only gamble when you feel calm, informed and able to make clear decisions.
• Set a spending limit before you begin and stop when that limit is reached.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the game.
• Keep gambling separate from essential household spending.
• Never chase losses by increasing stakes or continuing for longer.
• Do not gamble under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Remember that taking a break or choosing not to gamble is always an option.

Recognising signs of harm

Gambling harm can develop gradually, and it can affect anyone. You may not notice a problem immediately, particularly if gambling is presented as a normal part of leisure. Paying attention to changes in your behaviour, mood, finances and relationships can help you act early.

Consider whether any of the following statements apply to you. One sign does not necessarily mean that you have a gambling problem, but several signs may indicate that additional support or a break would be helpful.

• You spend more money or time gambling than you originally intended.
• You think about gambling frequently or feel restless when you cannot gamble.
• You try to win back money you have lost by placing further bets.
• You increase the amount or frequency of gambling to achieve the same excitement.
• You hide gambling activity, losses or account information from people close to you.
• You borrow money, sell belongings or use credit to continue gambling.
• Gambling affects your sleep, work, study, relationships or daily responsibilities.
• You feel anxious, guilty, upset or unable to control your gambling.
• You return to gambling after deciding to stop or take a break.
• You use gambling to escape stress, loneliness, sadness or other difficult feelings.

If these signs feel familiar, stop gambling and consider speaking with someone you trust or a qualified support service. You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help. Early support can make it easier to regain control and protect your finances and wellbeing.

Tools to help you stay in control

Powerup Casino may provide account and gambling management options designed to help players make informed choices. Available options can vary according to the service, account status and applicable requirements. Review the options available through your account or contact the relevant support channel if you need assistance understanding them.

Deposit and spending limits

A deposit limit can restrict the amount you add to your account during a selected period. Choose an amount that fits comfortably within your budget and set it before playing. A limit is a planning tool, not a guarantee that you will stop gambling altogether, so continue to monitor your time, spending and behaviour.

Time limits and reminders

Use alarms, reminders or available session information to keep track of how long you have been playing. Casino games can make time feel less noticeable, especially during a long session. Taking a break helps you reassess whether you still want to continue and whether gambling remains within your personal plan.

Reality checks and account reviews

If account activity or session information is available, review it regularly. Looking at deposits, withdrawals, playing time and frequency can provide a clearer picture than relying on memory. Do not judge your results only by occasional wins; consider your overall spending and whether gambling is affecting other areas of your life.

Cooling-off and self-exclusion

If you need space from gambling, consider using a cooling-off period or self-exclusion option where available. A cooling-off period can provide a short break, while self-exclusion is a stronger step intended to prevent access for a chosen period or as otherwise provided by the service. During a break, remove saved payment details, avoid gambling-related reminders and tell a trusted person about your decision.

Limits and exclusion requests should be treated seriously. If you request a restriction, do not attempt to bypass it by opening another account, using another person's account or asking someone else to gamble on your behalf. If you believe a restriction has not worked as expected, stop using the service and raise the matter through the available support process.

Getting help and protecting others

If gambling is causing financial, emotional or relationship difficulties, seek independent help. A qualified counsellor, financial counsellor, healthcare professional or gambling support service can help you understand your situation and make a plan. Support is available for people who gamble and for family members, partners and friends affected by someone else's gambling.

When looking for help in Australia, use a recognised gambling support or health service in your state or territory. You can also speak with your general practitioner or another trusted healthcare professional. If you feel in immediate danger, are thinking about self-harm or cannot keep yourself safe, contact emergency services or an urgent crisis support service without delay.

1. Stop gambling and close the game or log out of your account.
2. Tell a trusted person what is happening and ask them to support your next steps.
3. Review your finances and prioritise essential bills, food, housing and other necessities.
4. Remove easy access to gambling funds and consider asking your bank about available gambling transaction controls.
5. Contact an independent gambling support service or qualified professional.
6. Use a cooling-off period or self-exclusion option if you need stronger protection.
7. Keep seeking support and review your plan if urges or financial pressure continue.

You can also support another person without taking control of their finances or making promises you cannot keep. Choose a calm time to talk, describe what you have noticed without blame and encourage professional help. Protect your own wellbeing and seek advice if another person's gambling is affecting your safety, finances or relationships.

Responsible gaming is an ongoing choice, not a single action. Set boundaries before you play, review them regularly and be prepared to stop whenever gambling is no longer affordable, enjoyable or under control. Powerup Casino encourages players to make informed decisions and seek support early whenever concerns arise.