Responsible Gaming

Gambling can be an enjoyable leisure activity when it remains within your personal and financial limits. It also involves risk, and there is no guaranteed way to win. Outcomes are determined by the relevant game rules and chance, so previous results do not predict future results. A win should not be viewed as proof that a particular strategy will continue to work, and a loss should not be treated as something that must be recovered.

Before using Syndicate Casino, make sure you meet the minimum legal age and other requirements that apply to you. Only gamble when you are making clear and informed decisions. Avoid gambling if you are affected by alcohol, medication, fatigue, stress or any other factor that may affect your judgement. Gambling should never interfere with your relationships, work, study, health or everyday responsibilities.

• Set a spending limit before you start and stay within it.
• Treat money used for gambling as an entertainment expense, not an investment.
• Set a time limit and take regular breaks from play.
• Keep track of how much time and money you spend.
• Do not borrow money, use essential household funds or sell possessions to gamble.
• Never chase losses by increasing your stakes or playing for longer.
• Do not gamble to deal with difficult emotions or financial pressure.
• Avoid making important financial decisions while gambling.

It can help to decide your limits when you are calm and not currently playing. A limit is most useful when it is realistic, recorded and followed consistently. If you reach your limit, stop playing rather than changing it in the moment. You may also wish to ask someone you trust to help you stay accountable.

Problem gambling can develop gradually. It is not defined only by the amount of money lost. Gambling may be becoming harmful if it takes more time, attention or money than you intended, or if it begins to affect your wellbeing or the people around you. Recognising a concern early can make it easier to take action.

Possible warning signs

• Thinking about gambling frequently or finding it difficult to focus on other activities.
• Gambling for longer than planned or returning soon after deciding to stop.
• Increasing the amount or frequency of gambling to achieve the same excitement.
• Trying to win back money that has been lost.
• Feeling restless, irritable or uncomfortable when not gambling.
• Hiding gambling activity, losses or account information from family and friends.
• Borrowing money, missing payments or using money intended for essential expenses.
• Feeling anxious, guilty, embarrassed or upset because of gambling.
• Gambling affecting work, study, sleep, relationships or physical health.
• Making repeated attempts to cut back or stop without success.

Having one of these experiences does not mean that you have a gambling disorder, but it is a reason to pause and review your gambling. Stop playing if gambling no longer feels enjoyable or controlled. Speaking with a qualified support service, counsellor, health professional or trusted person can provide practical and confidential guidance.

Syndicate Casino may provide account and play-management options designed to help you make informed decisions. The availability and operation of these options may depend on your account, location and applicable requirements. Review the controls available through your account or contact the appropriate support channel for general assistance. These tools work best when used before a concern becomes serious.

Limits and breaks

Where available, you may be able to set or request limits relating to deposits, spending, losses, time or other aspects of play. Consider choosing limits that reflect what you can comfortably afford after essential expenses and savings. You may also be able to take a temporary break from gambling. During a break, do not create another account or use another person’s account to continue playing.

Self-exclusion

If you need a stronger barrier, self-exclusion may be appropriate. Self-exclusion is a request to restrict or prevent access to gambling services for a selected period or until a further review, depending on the option available. It should be treated seriously. Once you request self-exclusion, do not try to bypass it by opening another account, providing different details or asking another person to gamble on your behalf.

Practical steps

1. Stop playing and close any active gambling sessions.
2. Review recent activity so you have a clear picture of your time and spending.
3. Set an appropriate limit, break or self-exclusion request.
4. Remove saved payment methods and reduce access to gambling funds where practical.
5. Tell someone you trust what is happening and ask for support.
6. Contact an independent gambling support service or health professional.

Account controls do not replace professional help, financial advice or personal support. If you are concerned about gambling, consider using more than one safeguard and seek assistance as soon as possible.

If gambling is causing financial, emotional or relationship difficulties, independent help is available in Australia. You can look for a recognised gambling-help service in your state or territory, speak with a general practitioner or mental health professional, or contact a trusted community organisation. Independent services can help you understand your options, create a plan and access financial or emotional support. You do not need to wait until a situation becomes an emergency before asking for help.

If you feel at immediate risk of harming yourself or someone else, contact emergency services or an urgent mental health service in your area. If gambling is connected with family conflict, financial abuse or safety concerns, prioritise your safety and seek support from an appropriate professional or support organisation.

Syndicate Casino supports responsible gambling principles and expects account holders to use gambling services lawfully and responsibly. We may apply checks, restrictions or other measures where required by applicable law, our policies or information indicating that an account may need additional protection. We may also provide information about safer gambling options and encourage customers to take a break when appropriate.

We do not present gambling as a reliable source of income, a solution to debt or a way to improve financial circumstances. Advertising, promotions and account communications should be considered carefully, and you should only participate in offers or gambling activities that fit within your own limits and applicable terms.

For help with a personal gambling concern, use an independent support service or qualified professional. For questions about the responsible gambling features available on your Syndicate Casino account, use the support options provided on the website. Never share your login details with another person, and do not allow anyone else to gamble using your account.