Responsible Gaming

Gambling involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Every game result is determined by chance or by the rules of the relevant game. Previous wins or losses do not make a future result more or less likely. A strategy, system or pattern cannot remove the inherent risks of gambling.

Before you play, decide how much time and money you are comfortable spending. Treat that amount as an entertainment expense rather than an investment. Only gamble with money that you can afford to lose after essential costs such as housing, food, bills, education and other financial commitments have been covered.

Do not use credit, borrowed money or funds intended for essential expenses to gamble. Avoid gambling when you are upset, stressed, tired, affected by alcohol or other substances, or trying to recover money lost in an earlier session. Taking a break can help you make clearer decisions.

Practical ways to stay in control

• Set a personal spending limit before you start and keep to it.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks away from the screen.
• Keep a record of your deposits, withdrawals, wins and losses.
• Do not increase your stakes to chase a loss or try to win back money quickly.
• Keep gambling separate from your household budget and financial goals.
• Avoid gambling as a response to boredom, loneliness, anger or anxiety.
• Talk openly with someone you trust about your gambling choices.
• Stop playing when gambling is no longer enjoyable or feels difficult to control.

It can be useful to review your gambling activity regularly, even when you believe everything is under control. A clear review can show how much time and money gambling is taking and whether your habits are changing. If the figures cause concern, take a break and consider seeking independent support.

Problem gambling can affect anyone. It is not always easy to recognise, particularly when gambling starts as occasional entertainment. Concern may arise when gambling becomes difficult to control, takes priority over other responsibilities or causes financial, emotional or relationship problems. You do not need to wait for a crisis before asking for help.

Possible warning signs

• Spending more money or time gambling than you planned.
• Thinking about gambling frequently during work, study, family time or sleep.
• Trying to recover losses by gambling more often or using larger amounts.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when you try to stop or reduce gambling.
• Hiding gambling activity, losses, transactions or account information from others.
• Borrowing money, selling possessions or missing bills because of gambling.
• Using gambling to escape stress, sadness, conflict or other difficult feelings.
• Neglecting work, study, health, family, friends or other interests.
• Arguing with people close to you about your gambling.
• Feeling guilt, shame or regret but continuing to gamble.

One warning sign may be enough to justify a pause and honest review. Several signs may indicate that additional support would be helpful. Gambling problems can grow gradually, and attempting to manage them alone may be difficult. Speaking with a qualified counsellor, health professional or gambling support service can provide practical, confidential guidance.

If gambling has contributed to financial difficulty, consider contacting an independent financial counsellor before taking out credit or making further deposits. If gambling is affecting your mental health, relationships or personal safety, contact an appropriate health or community support service. In an immediate emergency, contact emergency services or seek urgent help.

Wildcard Casino supports players who want to manage their gambling. Depending on the features available on your account and in your jurisdiction, you may be able to use account controls such as deposit limits, wagering limits, session reminders, activity information, cooling-off periods or self-exclusion. These tools are designed to support informed choices, but they work best when used before gambling becomes difficult to manage.

Setting limits

A limit can help you decide in advance how much money or time you are prepared to spend. Choose an amount that fits comfortably within your budget and do not treat the limit as a target. Once a limit has been reached, do not attempt to bypass it through another account, payment method or device. If you need help understanding an available control, review the relevant account information or contact Wildcard Casino through the support options provided on the website.

Taking a break

A temporary break can be useful when you feel distracted, stressed or uncertain about your gambling. During a break, avoid opening the website or application, remove saved payment details where appropriate, and spend time on other activities. Consider telling a trusted person that you are taking a break so they can provide encouragement and accountability.

Self-exclusion

Self-exclusion is a stronger restriction for people who want to stop gambling for a specified period or longer. A self-exclusion request may restrict access to an account and prevent further play in accordance with the applicable process. Read the terms of the relevant self-exclusion option carefully before confirming it. Do not create or use another account to avoid a restriction. If you believe you need self-exclusion, act promptly and seek support at the same time.

Account controls cannot guarantee that gambling will remain harmless. They should be used together with a realistic budget, regular breaks and honest reflection. If you have tried to reduce or stop gambling and found it difficult, independent professional support is recommended.

Gambling is for adults only. You must not use Wildcard Casino if you are under the legal gambling age that applies to you, and you must not allow another person to use your account. Do not share your login details, payment information or account access with children or other unauthorised people.

Parents, carers and household members should take reasonable steps to prevent children from accessing gambling services. Keep devices protected with passwords, use appropriate parental controls and avoid saving account credentials where another person could use them. Be aware of gambling-related content and conversations that may influence young people.

If you are concerned that a vulnerable person is gambling, approach the subject calmly and without judgement. Encourage them to pause, review their activity and seek independent assistance. You cannot control another adult's choices, but you can offer support, help them find reliable information and encourage practical financial and technical safeguards.

Getting help

Support is available from Australian gambling help services, qualified counsellors, general practitioners, mental health professionals and independent financial counsellors. You may also wish to speak with a trusted family member or friend. Gambling support services can help with urges, financial concerns, relationship impacts and plans to stop or reduce gambling. Support may also be available for family members affected by someone else's gambling.

Wildcard Casino can provide information about the responsible gaming features and account processes made available through the website. We cannot provide medical, psychological, legal or financial advice. For advice about your personal circumstances, contact an appropriately qualified independent professional or an Australian support service. If you feel unsafe or believe there is an immediate risk of harm, seek urgent assistance from emergency or crisis services.

By choosing to gamble, you accept that gambling carries financial and personal risks. Make decisions carefully, set boundaries before you play and ask for help early if those boundaries become difficult to maintain. Responsible gaming is an ongoing choice, and taking a break is always a valid option.