Taking control: nearly 26k register with BetStop

Christine Denosta July 8, 2024

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Taking control: nearly 26k register with BetStop

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) recently released a performance report on BetStop, a self-exclusion program launched on 21 August 2023. The program targets individuals who want to be excluded from all licensed online and phone wagering providers in Australia.

Surge of registrants

The report revealed a surge in BetStop registrants, with 25,972 individuals signing up for the program from its launch until June 2024. New South Wales had the largest number of registrants, with 8,055 individuals, followed by Victoria with 7,020. Moreover, 1,590 new registrants were reported to join the program in June alone.

Jurisdiction	Total number of registrants
New South Wales	8,055
Victoria	7,020
Queensland	5,236
Western Australia	2,822
South Australia	1,612
Tasmania	634
Australian Capital Territory	405
Northern Territory	188
Total	25,972

Figure 1. BetStop registrants from August 2023 – June 2024.

As of 30 June 2024, 21,381 individuals had active exclusions, indicating outstanding participation of individuals in the program.

Youngsters opting for control

The report also emphasised the program’s impact on younger demographics, with 48% of BetStop registrants falling within the age range of 30 and under. This data underscores the proactive approach taken by young people in Australia to exclude themselves from gambling activities.

*Figure 2. Age demographics of BetStop registrants*

Lifetime exclusion

The report shed light on the duration of exclusions chosen by participants, revealing that 40% of registrants opted for a 3-month to 2-year exclusion from licensed online and phone wagering providers. Additionally, 39% of participants elected for a lifetime exclusion, indicating a strong commitment to self-exclusion. Furthermore, 17% chose a 3-month exclusion, 3% opted for 2-5 years, and 1% selected over five years of exclusion.

*Figure 3. Exclusion duration choice of BetStop registrants*

The success and reach of the BetStop self-exclusion program stresses the growing awareness and use of such initiatives among the Australian population. With a large number of individuals actively seeking to exclude themselves from gambling activities, the program demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing gambling-related issues in the country.

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