The Australian government has launched a new nationwide self-exclusion register called BetStop. It allows people to block themselves from gambling on licensed interactive betting platforms for as little as three months and up to a lifetime. This covers both telephone and online-based operators.

Any player that is a part of the register will not be able to create an account or place any bets. Licensees are not able to send any sort of marketing materials to these people and must also promote BetStop across their platforms.

part of the National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Wagering

The launch of BetStop comes as part of the National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Wagering, which has been on the horizon for some time. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) will regulate BetStop and is launching a public awareness campaign to let people know about the new service.

Talking about the launch this week, Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland MP said: “BetStop will change lives for the better, giving Australians most at-risk of gambling harm the support they need.”

Another new responsible gambling measure coming into place in Australia will ensure operators verify the identity of people when they create a new account.