The Australian Government has launched its gambling self-exclusion register, BetStop, which aims to reduce the risk of problem gambling for players in the country.
The register, a common practice in many other countries with established gambling markets, was one of the measures recommended by a national consumer protection framework to tackle the rise of online bookmakers.
Players can register with BetStop for free and exclude themselves from operators for a set period, between three months to a lifetime.
All licensed operators will be required to work with BetStop and block accounts from those who exclude themselves through the register, including online platforms and telephone-based gambling services.
Not only will the excluded player be banned from participating in gambling activity, but operators must also ensure no marketing materials are sent to them either.
If players have remaining balances or wagers with operators, the company is responsible for refunding the credit before closing the account.
Michelle Rowland, Communications Minister, said: “BetStop will change lives for the better, giving Australians most at risk of gambling harm the support they need to self-exclude from interactive licensed wagering.”
Operators will also be required to promote the BetStop self-exclusion register across all of their platforms, including marketing campaigns.
Amanda Rishworth, Social Services Minister, said: “With the introduction of BetStop, all measures under the National Consumer Protection Framework will be realised, with significant action delivered by our Government in just over a year.
“These measures will help to minimise the harm we see as a result of online gambling. For many people, it will change their lives.”
IXUP Limited will operate the BetStop service, while the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) will be responsible for ensuring the register complies with the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 and the Register Rules.
In an attempt to counteract inappropriate advertisements being shown in the country, the NSW Liquor & Gaming (L&GNSW) has also created a system of fines that it can impose on companies.
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