The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has reported major progress on the upcoming launch of a new national self-exclusion register for gambling.
Last month, the ACMA published its compliance priorities for 2022/23 with the aim of better regulating businesses operating within the country’s media, digital and telecom sectors.
Online gambling was identified as one of seven priority areas for Australia, and this week ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin revealed that the country’s self-exclusion registry would be named BetStop.
Under new rules, online gambling operators will be required to promote BetStop through their website, apps and marketing, adopted as a licensing requirement across all Australian states.
“BetStop will allow people to register to be excluded from all Australian licensed online and phone wagering services, such as those offering betting on horse racing or sports, from three months to permanently,” an ACMA statement read.
The in-bound self-exclusion registry will be supported by Australia’s National Gambling Helpline of 1800 858 858 and the Gambling Help Online portal.
O’Loughlin commented: “BetStop will be up and running in the coming months. It is now time for the industry to get ready and to have their systems and processes in place to protect their customers and use BetStop.
“BetStop will help those at risk of gambling harm to take control of their situation, allowing them to block themselves from all licensed online and phone wagering services in a single process.”
