Oct 24, 2023, 06:55h – BetStop: Australia’s New National Self-Exclusion Register Making Waves in Online Gambling Safety
Last updated on: Oct 24, 2023, 06:55h
BetStop, Australia’s revolutionary self-exclusion register, is proving to be a game-changer in the fight against online gambling harm. Since its launch in August, over 10,000 individuals have already enrolled in this groundbreaking program.
The BetStop program has seen a significant number of participants aged below 40, highlighting its importance for younger generations who are concerned about the risks associated with online gambling.
It is worth noting that the majority of registrations have opted for a lifetime commitment to self-exclusion, demonstrating the strong dedication of young Australians to protect themselves from potential online gambling harm.
BetStop: A Promising Start
BetStop provides comprehensive coverage for all authorized telephone-based and online gambling providers in Australia, imposing strict guidelines that prohibit these providers from accepting bets or opening accounts for individuals who have self-excluded. Marketing materials are also banned from being sent to these individuals.
With flexible self-exclusion options ranging from three months to a lifetime, the straightforward registration process takes less than five minutes to complete. This free service is easily accessible for all Australians.
To ensure widespread awareness and utilization, wagering service providers are required to actively promote BetStop on their websites, apps, and marketing materials. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) diligently monitors industry compliance to ensure operators adhere to the regulations.
Over 1,200 support persons have been designated as a gesture of community support. These individuals, nominated by registered BetStop users, play a vital role in assisting those undergoing self-exclusion periods, showing a collective effort to tackle the challenges posed by online gambling.
In conjunction with BetStop, the government has introduced mandatory pre-verification for wagering companies. This requirement entails verifying a customer’s identity during the registration process and before engaging in betting activities. The pre-verification process enhances protection for underage Australians and those who have self-excluded through BetStop.
Continuing Changes Ahead
Recognizing the impact of gambling harm, the decision to self-exclude represents a significant step for many individuals. With the exponential growth of online gambling, driven by the accessibility of mobile devices, there are approximately 3.5 million Australian adults engaging in online gambling.
Of concern are the one million online gamblers in Australia who may be at risk of or currently experiencing gambling harm. BetStop is just one of the measures the government is implementing as part of its dedication to responsible gambling.
As part of its commitment to harm minimization, the government has recently passed legislation prohibiting the use of credit cards for online wagering. This multifaceted approach emphasizes the government’s commitment to overseeing consumer spending habits and addressing the complex challenges posed by online gambling.