Australia’s BetStop registers 28,300 users in its first year

Garance Limouzy September 2, 2024

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Australia’s BetStop registers 28,300 users in its first year

A year ago, in August 2023, the national self-exclusion register BetStop was launched in Australia. Introduced by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), the program allows individuals to self-exclude from all licensed wagering providers in Australia for periods ranging from three months to a lifetime. The service is free and confidential.

28,300 registered in a year

Since its inception, more than 28,300 Australians have chosen to use BetStop to regain control over their gambling behaviours. In the first week alone, over 3,000 people registered. Since then, the momentum has continued, averaging 1,600 new registrations monthly. Notable spikes in registrations occurred during the AFL and NRL finals, the Melbourne Cup, and New Year’s celebrations.

Demographics and usage patterns

Nearly 50 percent of users are aged 30 or younger, and about 80 percent are under 40. Approximately 40 percent of registrants have opted for lifetime exclusion, while only 17 percent chose the minimum three-month exclusion period. The trend varies by age, with older individuals more likely to select lifetime exclusions compared to their younger counterparts.

ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin expressed optimism about the register’s impact. “The first year of BetStop has demonstrated that Australians are increasingly seeking help to manage their gambling behaviours,” O’Loughlin said. “It is particularly encouraging to see younger Australians taking proactive steps to control their gambling. The high number of people choosing long-term exclusion underscores a significant commitment to making positive changes.”

Support mechanisms

Support mechanisms are an integral part of BetStop’s program. Users can nominate up to five individuals to support them during their exclusion period. Data indicates that users with designated support persons are more likely to commit to lifetime exclusions. Since the launch, over 3,000 support persons have been added.

“The option to involve support persons is crucial, as it can make the process of self-exclusion less daunting. Those who have support are more likely to stick with their exclusion and achieve lasting change,” ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin explained.

14% have extended their self-exclusion

In terms of re-engagement, about 23,000 users (82 percent) remain active in the register as of August 2024. A small fraction, approximately 1 percent (330 people), have cancelled their self-exclusion early. More than 14 percent of users have already extended or reactivated their self-exclusion period.

Users seeking to lift their exclusion must first consult with a counsellor or general practitioner and complete a statutory declaration.