Public views sought for BetStop review

The Australian Government is seeking input from industry, harm reduction advocates and users to inform the first statutory review of BetStop – the National Self-Exclusion Register. 

Since BetStop commenced in August 2023, more than 34,000 Australians have registered for this important service that protects Australians from gambling harm.

In line with requirements under the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, the Government launched a review of BetStop after 12 months of operation, led by Mr Richard Eccles. 

The review will consider the effectiveness of BetStop’s underpinning regulatory framework and whether regulatory arrangements under the Interactive Gambling (National Self-Exclusion Register) Register Rules 2022 and the National Self-exclusion Register (Cost Recovery Levy) Act 2019 are fit for purpose.

With the review now open to public submissions, it provides an opportunity to consider future consumer needs, any unintended consequences or system gaps and any further policy considerations. 

In particular, we want to hear about the experience of users on issues such as ease and timeliness of registration, awareness of the program, effectiveness of self-excluding, compliance and support. Submissions from individuals will not be published, unless you indicate otherwise.

We also welcome input from harm reduction advocates and wagering service providers, particularly on opportunities for maturing and refining the scheme.

In addition to the public consultation process, the review will engage with key stakeholders to better understand these issues. Mr Eccles will deliver his final review report and findings to the Minister for Communications by early 2026 and this report will be tabled in Parliament.

To find out more about the review and to have your say, visit Have your say | Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts. Submissions close at 11.59pm AEST on Wednesday 30 April 2025.

Registering for BetStop is quick and easy: www.betstop.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:

“BetStop has been a gamechanger for many Australians, and this review will help to make sure it is working as effectively as possible to protect Australians from gambling harms.

“I encourage people who’ve registered or interacted with BetStop to have your say so we can take on your important feedback to inform any future changes. 

“We also welcome input from advocates and industry to build a strong evidence base of how BetStop is operating in practice and identify any gaps or room for improvement.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Social Services, the Hon Amanda Rishworth MP

“Protecting vulnerable Australians from online gambling harms is not a set and forget proposition – it’s important we make sure the mechanisms we put in place are working as effectively as possible.

“Contributions from BetStop users and their families, advocates and industry will be invaluable in informing the review, and I encourage interested parties to have their say.”