From August 1, 2023, Australians will be able to sign up to BetStop – the national self-exclusion register, to self-exclude from all licenced interactive wagering providers.
The minister for communications Michelle Rowland MP and minister for social services Amanda Rishworth MP announced the upcoming launch of the service.
They also explained that, due to industry obligations under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 which will come into effect on this date, the industry will have legal obligations to not open an account for someone who has self-excluded, or to provide wagering services or directly market to them.
According to the Australian Communications and Media Authority, wagering providers must also “ensure that they take all reasonable steps to be connected to the system before the launch”, as well as actively promote BetStop.
Heavy penalties may be issued for those who fail to comply with the new obligations.