The authorities in Australia have initiated a novel program to address gambling dependency. Known as BetStop, this self-exclusion registry empowers individuals to restrict their access to all licensed betting platforms and applications nationwide.
This action forms part of a wider strategy to mitigate gambling-related harm, a substantial public health concern in Australia. The registry is accessible without charge, and users can opt for self-exclusion durations spanning from a quarter year to a lifetime.
Participation in the program is mandatory for all licensed gambling operators, prohibiting them from engaging in any gambling activities with individuals listed on the register. Additionally, they are prohibited from transmitting promotional materials to registered persons.
The government aspires for BetStop to provide individuals with enhanced autonomy over their gambling behaviors and assist them in averting the potentially ruinous financial and personal repercussions associated with addiction.
Australian telecom providers must now feature the BetStop self-banning initiative across their channels, encompassing promotional activities.
Social Services Minister, Amanda Rishworth, stressed the importance of this action, noting that Australia, with the rollout of BetStop, has effectively executed all elements of the National Consumer Protection Framework for internet wagering, achieving substantial advancement in just over twelve months. She underscored that these actions aim to mitigate the detrimental impacts of online betting and will be transformative for numerous individuals.
IXUP Limited will administer the BetStop service, while the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) will supervise the registry to guarantee its adherence to the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 and the Register Rules.
Concurrently, to address unsuitable advertising, the New South Wales Liquor & Gaming Authority (L&GNSW) has instituted a structure for imposing sanctions on businesses that engage in such conduct.
