Australia calls for first review of BetStop self-exclusion

BetStop, Australia’s National Self-Exclusion Register, is set for its first statutory review.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has appointed Richard Eccles to lead the review, which will assess BetStop’s performance and progress since its launch in August 2023.

BetStop was created as a national gambling self-exclusion system, accessible across all six federal states. It is managed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), which was granted new powers in 2022 to oversee safer gambling across Australia.

Under agreements with gambling authorities in the Capital Territory, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, the Northern Territory, and Tasmania, all licensed operators are required to register their player databases with BetStop, regardless of where they are licensed.

Since its launch, over 30,000 Australians have signed up to BetStop. Of these, 79% are aged 40 or younger, and 39% have chosen a lifetime ban. Currently, around 23,000 people have active exclusions. Estimates suggest BetStop may have saved between $80 million and $135 million in its first year, based on similar programs.

The review will include a public consultation starting later in 2024, giving people who’ve used BetStop a chance to provide feedback. This input will be considered for future improvements. More information on how to participate will be available on the Department of Infrastructure’s “Have Your Say” page in November 2024.

Richard Eccles, a seasoned public sector leader with experience in governance, health, and technology, will lead the review. He’ll evaluate the regulatory framework of BetStop to ensure it aligns with the Interactive Gambling Rules and related legislation. Eccles is expected to submit his final report to the Minister within 18 months, after which it will be tabled in Parliament.


“There’s been an incredible uptake of BetStop in its first year, and it’s already making a real difference for thousands of Australians and their families,” said Minister Rowland.

“We want to ensure BetStop is working as effectively as possible to protect vulnerable Australians from gambling harm, which is why this review is crucial.

“I encourage anyone who’s used BetStop to take part in the consultation process so we can gather feedback to guide future changes.”