Australia Launches Its First Review of the BetStop Self-Exclusion Register

The Australian government has initiated the first statutory review into BetStop, the National Self-Exclusion Register created to protect Australians from the harms of online gambling. Leading the review will be Richard Eccles, an experienced public sector leader, who will help examine the register’s effectiveness and regulatory framework after 12 months of operation.

Gambling Harm Remains a Rising Threat to Australians

BetStop, implemented by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) in August 2023, covers all licensed Australian gambling operators. It ensures those who enroll in the program cannot open new betting accounts, place bets, or receive marketing materials from operators. Providers must also close the existing accounts of self-excluded individuals to strengthen anti-gambling harm safeguards.

Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland highlighted BetStop’s positive impact on Australian families. She urged individuals who’ve registered or interacted with BetStop to share their feedback in the upcoming public consultation, helping further refine the service and expand its reach and visibility. Rowland also reaffirmed her dedication to delivering the best possible exclusion platform.

We want to make sure BetStop is working as effectively as possible to protect vulnerable Australians from gambling harms – which is why my department is undertaking this review.

Michelle Rowland, Minister for Communications

ACMA created the self-exclusion tool to combat the significant personal and societal impacts of problem gambling. Research shows that problem gaming can lead to financial strain, relationship breakdowns, and impact individuals’ mental and physical health. BetStop allows individuals to exclude themselves from wagering voluntarily, reducing their exposure to gambling-related harm.

BetStop Has Helped Tens of Thousands of Users

Since its inception, BetStop has seen rapid adoption. To date, over 30,000 Australians have registered for the service. Most registrants, 79%, are under the age of 40, and 39% have opted for a lifetime ban from gambling. Currently, 23,000 people have active exclusions. Initial estimates suggest that BetStop’s reduction of gambling harm may have already led to cost savings of $80-$135 million.

The review will consider whether BetStop’s regulatory framework remains relevant in the evolving landscape of online gambling. Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth noted the review was an opportunity to ensure the continued effectiveness of BetStop. She also highlighted the government’s past actions and ongoing commitment to protecting consumers.

Protecting vulnerable Australians from online gambling harms is not a set-and-forget proposition – and we’ll continue to work closely with stakeholders across government, industry and community to address this pervasive issue.

Amanda Rishworth, Minister for Social Services

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts will outline the process for public consultations on its website by the end of November 2024. The review must present its final report to the Minister for Communications within 18 months. The findings will then be reviewed in Parliament, potentially leading to further refinements to reflect emerging trends in the online gambling industry.