Responsible Gambling at Red Dog

Responsible gambling at Red Dog

Pokies and casino games are entertainment, not a way to make money. Red Dog gives you tools to stay in control of your time and your budget, so play stays enjoyable rather than stressful. This page explains what each tool does and how to switch it on.

Every account holder at Red Dog must be 18 years or older. These tools exist for anyone who wants a bit more structure around their play, not just players who feel they have a problem. Setting a limit before you deposit is good practice, the same way you'd set a budget before a night out.

Safer-gambling tools available to you

The table below sets out the main tools you can use to manage your account, what each one actually does, and how you switch it on.

T&Cs apply, offer subject to change. If a limit option isn't visible in your account dashboard, support can apply it manually on request.

Setting a limit on your account

Limits work best when they're set before you start a session, not partway through one. Here's how to go about it:

1. Decide on a figure you can genuinely afford to lose without affecting bills, rent or savings.
2. Log into your Red Dog account and open the account or responsible gambling settings.
3. Choose the type of limit: deposit, loss or time, depending on what you want to control.
4. Select the period: daily, weekly or monthly.
5. Confirm the limit and treat it as fixed, not a starting point to negotiate with yourself later.
6. Contact support if you can't find the setting, and ask for it to be applied to your account directly.

Note that limit decreases usually apply straight away, while increasing a limit involves a cooling-off period before it takes effect. This delay is intentional and is there to protect you.

Self-exclusion and how it works

What self-exclusion means

Self-exclusion closes your Red Dog account so you cannot log in or deposit for a period you set. It's a firmer step than a limit, designed for when you need a complete break rather than tighter boundaries.

How to request it

Contact support and ask to self-exclude. Be clear about the length of time you want, whether that's a number of months or an indefinite period. Once it's confirmed, the account is locked for that duration and cannot be reopened early.

What happens during exclusion

• Your account is closed to new deposits and logins for the period agreed.
• Marketing emails and promotional contact should stop once exclusion is in place.
• Any funds in your account at the time remain yours and can be withdrawn.

Self-exclusion through Red Dog applies to your account with us. It is separate from BetStop, the national self-exclusion register, which applies to licensed Australian wagering operators rather than offshore casino sites.

Recognising the warning signs

Problem gambling can build up gradually. It's worth checking in with yourself honestly every so often, particularly if any of the following sound familiar.

• Spending more time or money on pokies than you planned to, on a regular basis.
• Chasing losses by depositing again to try to win back what you've lost.
• Borrowing money, selling things, or using bill money to fund play.
• Lying to family or friends about how much time or money you're spending.
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when you try to cut back or stop.
• Gambling to escape stress, boredom or low mood, rather than for entertainment.
• Neglecting work, study, relationships or sleep because of time spent playing.

Noticing one or two of these occasionally doesn't necessarily mean there's a serious problem, but a pattern of several together is worth acting on. Using the deposit, loss or time limits above is a reasonable first step.

Where to get help locally

Support is free, confidential and available whether you're an existing player or just want information for yourself or someone close to you.

• Gambling Help Online: call 1800 858 858, available 24/7, or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au for live chat, counselling and self-help tools.
• Lifeline: call 13 11 14 for crisis support if you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious or unsafe.

These services are independent, free, and staffed by trained counsellors. You don't need to be in crisis to call, they can help with budgeting, setting limits, or just talking through what's going on.

Red Dog is strictly 18+. If you are under 18, you must not attempt to register or play. If gambling has stopped being fun and started causing harm to you or people around you, reach out to Gambling Help Online before you deposit again.

FAQ

How do I set a deposit limit on my Red Dog account?

Log into your account, go to the account or responsible gambling settings, and select deposit limit. Choose a daily, weekly or monthly amount you can comfortably afford. If you can't see the option, contact support and ask them to apply it for you.

Can I reverse self-exclusion early if I change my mind?

No. Self-exclusion is designed to lock your account for the full period you choose, without early reopening. This is intentional, so contact support beforehand if you're unsure about the length and want to start with a shorter period.

Does self-exclusion at Red Dog cover other casino sites too?

No. Self-exclusion through Red Dog only closes your Red Dog account. It is not connected to BetStop, Australia's national self-exclusion register, which applies to licensed domestic wagering operators rather than offshore casino sites.

What happens to my money if I self-exclude?

Any funds already in your account belong to you and remain withdrawable after you self-exclude. Exclusion stops further deposits and play, it does not affect your right to withdraw an existing balance.

Is Gambling Help Online free and confidential?

Yes. Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 is a free, confidential service available 24/7 by phone or live chat at gamblinghelponline.org.au. You don't need to disclose your identity, and support is available for players and for family or friends affected by someone else's gambling.

What are the early warning signs I should watch for in myself?

Common early signs include playing longer or spending more than planned, chasing losses, feeling irritable when you try to stop, and hiding your play from people close to you. Noticing any of these is a good reason to set a limit or speak with Gambling Help Online.