Australia’s national gambling self-exclusion register has recorded 67,480 registrations since its launch three years ago, according to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).
The regulator said on Friday that 41,290 exclusions remained active as of July 31st, indicating that more than 60 percent of all registrations were still in effect.
BetStop, formally known as the National Self-Exclusion Register, allows people to block themselves from all licensed online and telephone wagering services in Australia.
While an exclusion is active, betting providers cannot allow the registered person to place wagers or open new accounts. Operators are also prohibited from sending them direct marketing communications.
ACMA data showed that 78 percent of registrants were under the age of 40, while 38 percent had chosen to exclude themselves for life.
Users can select an exclusion period ranging from three months to a lifetime. The system covers all Australian-licensed interactive wagering providers through a single registration.
An independent review released earlier this year found that BetStop was delivering benefits to Australians affected by online gambling but identified areas requiring further improvement.
The review called for greater public awareness of the service, improvements to the user experience and stronger support pathways for people using the register.
ACMA has since established a BetStop Taskforce to implement the recommendations and consult stakeholders on future changes.
The regulator said the taskforce would focus on strengthening assistance available to registrants and improving the overall operation of the self-exclusion system.
