Responsible Gambling at Cadoola

Why Safer-Gambling Tools Exist

Pokies and casino games are entertainment, not a way to make money. Cadoola provides a set of safer-gambling tools so you can play within limits that suit your life, your budget and your time. These tools put you in control of your account.

Using them is simple, free and confidential. None of them affect your ability to withdraw winnings you've already earned, and none of them require you to explain yourself to anyone. You set the boundary, the account enforces it.

Who these tools are for

Every player benefits from at least one limit, whether you play occasionally or every week. You don't need to be experiencing a problem to set a deposit limit or book in a reality check. Think of these as the same kind of planning you'd apply to any entertainment budget.

Self-Exclusion and How It Works

Self-exclusion lets you close off access to your account for a period of time you choose. It is the strongest tool available because it removes the option to play entirely, rather than just capping how much you spend.

How to activate self-exclusion

1. Go to your account settings or contact support and ask to self-exclude.
2. Choose the length of time: a short cooling-off period or a longer exclusion.
3. Confirm the request. Your account access is then suspended for that period.
4. Marketing emails and promotional contact stop once exclusion is confirmed.
5. Reactivation after the period ends is not automatic and is handled through support, giving you a deliberate second step before returning to play.

What self-exclusion does not do

Self-exclusion locks your Cadoola account. It does not register you with a national database and it does not prevent you from opening an account elsewhere. If you want broader coverage of your own habits, pair it with the practical steps in the "where to get help" section below.

Setting a Limit on Your Account

Deposit, loss and time limits work the same way: you set a figure or duration, the system holds you to it, and any increase takes effect only after a delay, never instantly. Follow these steps to set one up.

1. Log in to your Cadoola account and open the account or responsible gambling settings.
2. Select the type of limit you want: deposit, loss, or session time.
3. Pick a timeframe: daily, weekly or monthly.
4. Enter the amount or duration that fits your budget.
5. Confirm the limit. It applies immediately from that point.
6. To increase a limit later, submit the request and allow the cooling-off period before the higher limit takes effect. Decreasing a limit takes effect straight away.

Safer-Gambling Tools at a Glance

Recognising the Warning Signs

Problem gambling can develop gradually, which is why it helps to check in with yourself honestly from time to time. None of these signs on their own mean there's a problem, but several together are worth taking seriously.

Signs worth noticing in yourself

• 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 funds set aside for bills to keep playing
• Feeling restless, irritable or anxious when trying to cut back or stop
• Hiding your play from family, friends or a partner, or lying about how much you've spent
• Gambling affecting your sleep, work, study or relationships

Signs worth noticing in someone else

• Withdrawing from usual activities or becoming secretive about phone and computer use
• Sudden financial stress that doesn't match their usual spending
• Mood swings tied to wins and losses
• Asking to borrow money repeatedly without a clear reason

If any of this sounds familiar, it's worth acting early. Setting a limit or taking a break costs nothing and can be done in a couple of minutes.

Where to Get Help Locally

Free, confidential support is available in Australia, independent of any casino account you hold.

• Gambling Help Online: 1800 858 858, available 24/7, also at gamblinghelponline.org.au, with live chat and counselling.
• Lifeline: 13 11 14, for crisis support at any hour.

These services are free, confidential and not run by Cadoola. You can use them whether or not you plan to keep playing, and you don't need to have "hit bottom" to reach out. Early conversations are often the easiest ones.

Cadoola is for players aged 18 and over only. If you are under 18, you are not permitted to register or play.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does self-exclusion last on Cadoola?

You choose the length when you request it, from a short cooling-off period to a longer exclusion. Your account stays suspended for the full period you select, and reactivation afterwards goes through support rather than happening automatically.

Can I lower my deposit limit immediately if I change my mind?

Yes, decreasing a deposit, loss or time limit takes effect straight away. It's only increases that are held back by a cooling-off period, so you're never locked into a higher limit the moment you ask for one.

Does self-exclusion stop me from gambling at other casinos too?

No, self-excluding on Cadoola only closes your Cadoola account. It doesn't register you on a national exclusion scheme, so if you want broader coverage, speak with Gambling Help Online about other options available to you.

What happens to my balance if I self-exclude?

Self-exclusion suspends access to play, but any funds already in your account remain yours. Contact support to arrange a withdrawal of your available balance once exclusion is in place.

Are reality checks and session reminders the same thing?

They're closely related: a reality check pauses your session to show time played and net result, while a session reminder alerts you that time has passed. Both are set up in account preferences and can be adjusted to your preferred interval.

Who can I talk to if I'm worried about my own gambling?

Gambling Help Online is free, confidential and available 24/7 on 1800 858 858 or at gamblinghelponline.org.au. You can also reach Lifeline on 13 11 14 if you need to talk to someone urgently, at any hour of the day.