Play for fun, only with money you can spare

The rules that keep it fun

Set a budget before you play, and treat it as spent. Decide what this session costs you, the way a movie ticket costs you, and don't cross it. Money set aside for bills, rent or family is not gambling money, ever.

Set a loss limit, and a time limit. Decide both before you log in. When you hit either, you stop. The players who get hurt are the ones who decide mid-session, when the decision is hardest to make well.

Never chase losses. This is the single most dangerous habit in gambling. A losing run is not a reason to bet bigger to "win it back." That's how a bad session becomes a bad month. Walk away and come back another day.

Don't play to escape. If you're reaching for the reels because you're stressed, low, or trying not to think about something, that's a warning sign. The game can't fix any of that, and it tends to make it worse.

Don't drink and bet. Judgement and bankroll discipline don't survive alcohol. Keep them apart.

Warning signs to take seriously

Be honest with yourself if you notice any of these:

• You're spending more than you planned, more often than you planned.
• You're chasing losses, betting bigger to recover.
• You're borrowing money, or gambling with money meant for something else.
• You're hiding how much you play from family or friends.
• You feel anxious, irritable or low when you're not playing.
• Gambling is crowding out work, sleep, or the people you care about.

If a few of these ring true, it's worth pausing and talking to someone. These are common signs that the game has stopped being a game.

Where to get help

You don't have to sort this out alone, and reaching out early makes it far easier.

Talk to someone you trust. A friend or family member. Saying it out loud is often the hardest and most useful first step.

Gambling Help Online offers free, confidential support 24/7 on 1800 858 858 and at gamblinghelponline.org.au — chat, phone or email counselling, anywhere in Australia. Gamblers Anonymous Australia also runs free peer-support meetings in most states.

Use the casino's self-exclusion tools to put real distance between you and the game while you get support.

Speak to a doctor or mental health professional. Problem gambling is a recognised condition, and counsellors and therapists can help. If money worries are part of it, a financial counsellor can help untangle that side too.

A note on minors

This site and these games are strictly for adults aged 18 and over. If you share a device with anyone under 18, please use parental controls and keep your account details private. Gambling is never appropriate for minors.

The one thing to remember

Mega Moolah is entertainment. The moment it feels like work, a way to make money, or a way to escape, it's time to stop and step back. The game will still be there. Look after yourself first.