Gamble more safely
There are strategies you can use to help you remain in control of your gambling and reduce your risk of gambling harm.
Follow these rules* to help you set your limits
The first step to lower your risk of gambling harm is to put in safeguards around how much you spend, how often you gamble and how many products you gamble on. It’s important to follow all these rules at once, and not be selective.
How much should I spend on gambling? No more than 2% of your take home pay.
It’s recommended that you spend no more than 2% of your take home pay to avoid the risk of harm.
| Weekly take home pay | Maximum weekly gambling spend |
| $500 | $10 |
| $750 | $15 |
| $1,000 | $20 |
| $1,500 | $30 |
| $2,000 | $40 |
| $2,500 | $50 |
How often should I gamble? No more than once a week.
How many ways should I gamble? No more than 2 types of gambling.
When these rules are not enough
• issues with alcohol or other drugs
• mental health issues such as anxiety and depression
• a personal or family history of experiencing gambling harm.
Ways to help yourself stay within your limits
Gambling affects everyone differently. Be honest with yourself about your reasons for gambling. If you’re gambling to escape problems, and it’s no longer for fun, you may be more likely to experience gambling harm.
These strategies can help you practise safer gambling.
Decide before you go how much you can afford to lose and how much you want to spend. Do not change your mind after losing.
Set a time limit and stick to it
Decide how long you want to gamble for. Leave when you reach your time limit, whether you are winning or losing.
Trying to win back lost money by continuing to gamble usually ends up in even more losses. Take a break if you’re down and walk away.
Understand how gambling works
Learn about the different types of products you gamble on and the odds, you might be surprised to learn the real chances of winning and what you stand to lose.
Drinking alcohol or taking drugs affects your decision making. Keep a clear head so you don’t make decisions you’ll regret.
Be aware of peer pressure
Gambling with other people can affect the way you gamble. If your friendships revolve around gambling, it is important to set limits and boundaries before spending time with your friends.
Make sure gambling is balanced with other activities and hobbies like spending time with family and friends.
The three rules are adapted from the Lower-risk gambling guidelines originally developed by Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction in 2021. The guidelines aim to help people make more informed choices about their gambling.
