A new national survey commissioned by ACMA has found that 77% of Australians who self-exclude from online and phone wagering report an improved quality of life.
The research, focused on user experiences with BetStop, highlights the impact of self-exclusion on wellbeing and behaviour.
According to the findings, 79% of participants experienced better mental health, while 69% said their relationships with family, friends and partners had improved since joining the register.
Almost all respondents (96%) said they had either stopped betting altogether (81%) or reduced their gambling (15%) following registration.
The study was conducted by ORIMA on behalf of the ACMA and will contribute to the ongoing statutory review of the National Self-Exclusion Register.
The release of the research coincides with BetStop reaching a significant milestone, with more than 50,000 Australians now registered since its launch with more than 32,000 of these exclusions still active.
When registered, individuals are automatically excluded from all around 190 licensed wagering providers across Australia.
Just this week, the ACMA ramped up its crackdown on illegal online gambling, uncovering 44 breaches of the Interactive Gambling Act, completing 29 investigations and referring 71 websites for blocking.
Carolyn Lidgerwood, ACMA member, stated: "We know 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.
"The stories shared with us are both moving and compelling. We want to make sure everyone who uses phone or internet gambling in Australia is aware of their options for self-exclusion."
The Australian Government officially launched BetStop on 21 August 2023 as the tenth and final measure of the National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Wagering
