New service will let Aussies bar themselves from betting

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A new service that will allow Australians to have themselves barred from betting will launch in August.

The federal government will make BetStop, a "national self-exclusion register for online wagering", available from August 21, 2023.

Australians will be able to register with BetStop to voluntarily self-exclude from all 150 Australian licensed interactive wagering service providers from a minimum of three months, to a lifetime.

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Wagering service providers (both online and phone-based) will not be allowed to open an account or accept a bet from self-excluded individuals, or send them marketing material.

People will be able to register with BetStop for free and in one go.

The government will also introduce mandatory verification, meaning gambling providers will have to confirm a customer's identity when they register for a new account and before they can place a bet.

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Currently the requirement for ID verification gives providers 72 hours to confirm.

Gambling providers will also have to promote BetStop, including on their websites and apps, and through marketing material to customers.

Find out more about the exclusion service online.

There are many different ways to get help and information about gambling. Call the National Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858; use online counselling; find information about help services in your state or territory; get information and support for family and friends; get information about how to talk with someone about their gambling; or contact Gamblers Anonymous. All services are free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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