The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has announced it has engaged Engine Australia to develop and operate the in-development National Self-Exclusion Register.
People will be able to exclude themselves from between three months to permanently and the register will cover licensed online and telephone betting services across the country.
ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin welcomed Engine’s appointment and said this is a significant step toward a critical consumer safeguard.
“The register will make a difference for people who want help changing their gambling habits and will complement existing consumer protection measures,” Ms O’Loughlin said.
“If you choose to self-exclude, this register will ensure your account is closed, your money returned, and no further advertising or promotion activity will be directed your way.
“Engine is well-placed to deliver this protection having designed and developed GAMSTOP, the United Kingdom’s self-exclusion register.”
Ms O’Loughlin said the project now moves into its next phase of development with the ACMA set to begin extensive consultations with stakeholders.
“Through our consultation we will engage with the interactive wagering industry on the design of the system and the rules around the operation of the register. We will also work with consumers and advocacy groups to ensure that the register meets the needs of users, including putting in place robust privacy safeguards.”
The self exclusion register is set to launch before mid-2022.