Australia’s self-exclusion scheme tied to better well-being
A majority of Australians who have chosen to self-exclude from online and phone-based gambling say their lives have improved significantly, according to new research commissioned by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). The study, conducted by ORIMA Research, shows that the National Self-Exclusion Register, known as BetStop, is having a measurable impact on reducing gambling-related harm and improving mental wellbeing.
In October, the ACMA intensified its crackdown on illegal gambling operations, ordering internet service providers (ISPs) to block unlicensed online gambling sites found to be breaching national law. The sites added to the block list include Crown Gold, Maxispin Casino, Rain.gg, Didibet, LuckyBet, Malina Casino, and Spins of Glory, all of which were found to be operating in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
Strong improvement in wellbeing and relationships
The report found that 77 percent of BetStop registrants experienced a better overall quality of life after joining the scheme. About 79 percent said their mental health had improved, while nearly seven in ten reported stronger personal relationships.
Launched in August 2023, the national register allows people to block themselves from accessing online and phone wagering services offered by licensed providers across Australia. The program currently covers around 190 betting operators, including major online sportsbooks and racing platforms.
According to the study, more than 50,000 Australians have registered with BetStop since its launch. Of these, over 32,000 have active self-exclusions in place, reflecting strong and ongoing engagement with the initiative.
Sharp decline in gambling activity
The research highlighted that self-exclusion led to a substantial decline in gambling participation. Ninety-six percent of respondents said they had either completely stopped betting or reduced their activity significantly. About 81 percent reported they had quit gambling altogether, while 15 percent said they had cut down on the frequency and amount of their wagers.
The findings suggest that BetStop is not only helping people limit their gambling access but also supporting lasting behavioural changes. Many participants said the self-exclusion gave them the space to regain control over their finances and focus on personal and family priorities.
ACMA welcomes positive impact
ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood welcomed the research results, describing the improvements as “moving and compelling.” She said the findings demonstrate that BetStop is making a real difference in helping people reduce gambling harm.
“Online gambling causes a great deal of harm for too many in our communities. It is wonderful to see that the national self-exclusion register is having a positive impact,” Lidgerwood said.
She encouraged Australians who gamble online or via phone to consider registering for self-exclusion, noting that the process takes just five minutes to complete. Once registered, individuals are blocked from opening or using betting accounts with all participating providers for a chosen period.
Informing future policy
The ORIMA Research study will contribute to the statutory review of the National Self-Exclusion Register, helping shape future improvements to the program. The review includes individual case studies that detail the personal experiences of participants and the changes they have seen in their daily lives since self-excluding.
Authorities believe the findings will guide policy efforts aimed at strengthening consumer protection and ensuring that support mechanisms remain accessible to anyone affected by gambling harm.
As the program continues to grow, regulators and service providers expect BetStop to remain a central part of Australia’s responsible gambling framework, offering a practical tool for individuals seeking to regain control and improve their wellbeing.
Offshore operators under scrutiny
Throughout September, ACMA investigated multiple offshore gambling websites that provided services to Australian users despite being unlicensed. The findings led to formal warnings being issued in October to operators based in jurisdictions such as Curaçao, the Netherlands, and the Comoros Islands.
One of the most notable cases involved Hollycorn N.V., the operator behind Crown Gold Casino. According to ACMA, the company had been offering prohibited casino-style games to customers physically located in Australia. The regulator found that this activity violated subsection 15(2A) of the Interactive Gambling Act, which prohibits the provision of interactive gambling services to Australians through an internet carriage service unless appropriately licensed.
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