Australian regulator sanctions six operators for breaches of self-exclusion rules
Tabcorp hit with fine of over A$110,000, with BetChamps given a formal warning and other operators ordered to carry out independent reviews of their internal processes
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has found six licensed operators to have breached self-exclusion rules in 2024.
The regulator’s investigations showed Tabcorp, LightningBet, Betfocus, TempleBet, Picklebet and Betchamps all broke rules designed to protect individuals on the national self-exclusion register, BetStop.
Breaches found across the six investigations included marketing to BetStop-registered users and allowing them to open wagering accounts and access wagering services.
The ACMA said the operators’ processes for the identification and protection of self-excluded people were not adequate.
Betfocus, LightningBet and TempleBet have been issued remedial directions by the ACMA under the country’s Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
In accordance with the directions, each operator will be required by law to carry out an independent audit of their respective systems and make necessary changes.
Tabcorp Holdings paid a penalty of A$112,680 (£57,600) and agreed to also commission a third-party review of its processes as well as train staff on their obligations in relation to the register.
BetChamps was given a formal warning, and the ACMA has yet to announce the enforcement action for Picklebet.
The ACMA noted it could take stronger enforcement action, potentially including Federal Court proceedings to seek civil penalties, in the event any of the named companies continue to flaunt self-exclusion rules.
ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood said: “The national self-exclusion register is designed to help people who are trying to avoid gambling services and stop gambling, but self-exclusion only works if wagering providers follow the rules.
“These rules have been in place for more than two years and wagering providers should be taking their responsibilities seriously.
“When people decide to self-exclude from online and telephone gambling, they trust the system to protect them from gambling harm. These investigations have found that these companies broke that trust and let people down.
“All licensed wagering providers need to be aware that the ACMA is investigating compliance and enforcing the rules. Gambling companies must have effective systems in place to ensure self-excluded people cannot gamble with them.”
The ACMA sanctions were announced shortly after it emerged that Australian operator OkeBet will be receiving a reprimand from Victorian state authorities for similar contraventions of self-exclusion regulations.