More than 28,000 Australians have opted to self-exclude from all licensed online and phone wagering services since the launch of national self-exclusion register BetStop one year ago.

The register allows individuals to self-exclude for anywhere from three months to permanently as part of efforts to reduce gambling-related harm.

According to the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), which launched the register in August 2023, almost half of the 28,000 people to have self-excluded were aged 30 and under, while around 80% were 40 and under.

It also revealed that around 40% have self-excluded for live and around 20% for the minimum three-month period. More than 145 have extended or reactivated their original self-exclusion period.

“Online gambling can cause a great deal of harm to individuals, their families and friends, so it’s encouraging that so many people have decided to take the step and register to self-exclude,” said ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin.

“Younger Australians in particular are making early decisions about the role that online gambling will play in their lives.

“Many people are also choosing to nominate someone to support them. Stopping online gambling can be a difficult decision to make – having someone to support you can make the decision much easier. And many people are committing to long-term change, with a high percentage of people choosing to exclude for life.”