Take a Break from Gambling
Sometimes you need to step away from gambling for a while. Our "Take a Break" feature lets you temporarily suspend your account for a period you choose, giving you time to reset and refocus.
Temporary Self-Exclusion
Take a Break is a temporary self-exclusion tool that locks your account for a period you specify, from 1 day up to 6 months.
What is Take a Break?
Take a Break is a responsible gambling tool that temporarily suspends your account, preventing you from:
- Logging in to your account
- Placing bets
- Making deposits
- Accessing your account in any way
Key Features
- You choose the duration - Select from 1 day to 6 months
- Cannot be reversed - Once activated, you must wait until the period ends
- Automatic reactivation - Your account reopens automatically after the break period
- Funds are safe - Your balance remains secure during the break
How to Take a Break
- Log in to your account - Sign in with your credentials
- Go to My Account - Click on your profile icon
- Select Responsible Gambling - Navigate to the Responsible Gambling section
- Choose Take a Break - Click on 'Take a Break' option
- Select your break period - Choose how long you want to take a break
- Enter your password - Confirm your identity
- Confirm your break - Review and confirm - this cannot be undone
Cannot Be Reversed
Once you activate Take a Break, you cannot cancel it or access your account until the break period ends. Make sure you're certain about the duration you choose.
Break Period Options
| Duration | Best For | Example Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| 1 day | Quick reset | Cool down after a losing session |
| 1 week | Short break | Focus on work or family commitments |
| 2 weeks | Extended pause | Holiday or busy period |
| 1 month | Significant break | Reassess gambling habits |
| 3 months | Long-term break | Address potential concerns |
| 6 months | Extended self-exclusion | Serious gambling concerns |
What Happens During Your Break
Account Access
- Login blocked - You cannot log in to your account
- No betting - Unable to place any bets
- No deposits - Cannot add funds to your account
- No withdrawals - Cannot withdraw funds during the break
- No marketing - You won't receive promotional emails or messages
Your Balance
- Funds are safe - Your balance remains in your account
- No fees - No charges for taking a break
- Available after break - Full access restored when break ends
After Your Break Ends
Automatic Reactivation
- Break period expires - Your chosen duration completes
- Account automatically reopens - No action required from you
- Full access restored - You can log in and use all features
- Consider your next steps - Reflect on whether you're ready to return
Take Your Time
Just because your account reopens doesn't mean you have to start gambling immediately. Take time to consider if you're ready.
When to Take a Break
Signs You Might Need a Break
- Chasing losses - Trying to win back money you've lost
- Betting more than planned - Exceeding your budget regularly
- Gambling affecting life - Impact on work, relationships, or finances
- Feeling stressed - Anxiety or stress related to gambling
- Loss of control - Difficulty stopping or limiting gambling
- Neglecting responsibilities - Gambling taking priority over important tasks
Good Reasons to Take a Break
- Financial reset - Give yourself time to stabilize finances
- Life events - Focus on important personal or family matters
- Holiday or travel - Prevent gambling while away
- Reassess habits - Evaluate your gambling behavior
- Busy period - Eliminate distractions during demanding times
Take a Break vs Permanent Self-Exclusion
| Feature | Take a Break | Self-Exclusion |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 day to 6 months | Minimum 6 months, can be permanent |
| Reversible | No (until period ends) | No (requires application to reverse) |
| Automatic reactivation | Yes | No (manual reactivation required) |
| Best for | Temporary breaks | Serious gambling concerns |
Tips for a Successful Break
Before Your Break
- Choose the right duration - Be honest about how long you need
- Inform support network - Tell family or friends for accountability
- Plan alternatives - Find other activities to fill your time
- Address triggers - Identify what leads you to gamble
During Your Break
- Avoid gambling environments - Stay away from betting venues and websites
- Unsubscribe from gambling content - Remove temptations from social media
- Engage in new activities - Develop hobbies and interests
- Seek support if needed - Talk to counselors or support groups
After Your Break
- Reflect on the break - Consider how you felt without gambling
- Set new limits - Establish deposit limits before resuming
- Create a plan - Decide on boundaries for future gambling
- Consider extending - Take another break if you're not ready
Common Questions
Can I cancel my break once it's started?
No, Take a Break cannot be cancelled or reversed once activated. This is intentional to prevent impulsive decisions during the cooling-off period.
What happens to my balance during the break?
Your balance remains safe in your account. You'll have full access to it once your break period ends.
Can I withdraw my funds during a break?
No, all account access is suspended during the break period, including withdrawals.
Will I receive emails during my break?
No, you won't receive promotional emails or marketing messages while on a break.
What if I need a longer break?
If you realize you need more time, consider using our Permanent Self-Exclusion option for a minimum of 6 months or longer.
Can I take multiple breaks?
Yes, you can take a break as many times as you need. Each break must run its full course before you can access your account again.
What if I try to create a new account during my break?
Creating a new account while on a break violates our terms of service and both accounts will be permanently closed.
Need More Support?
Serious Concerns?
If you're experiencing serious gambling problems, consider our Permanent Self-Exclusion option or contact professional gambling support services.
Support Resources
- Gambling Help Online - 24/7 support and counseling - 1800 858 858
- Lifeline - Crisis support - 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue - Mental health support - 1300 22 4636