Australia’s communications regulator has taken action against four betting operators that failed to follow national rules on gambling self-exclusion. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) said Buddybet, Ultrabet, VicBet, and Topbet breached BetStop requirements, the country’s official National Self-Exclusion Register.
Good to know
- Operators must immediately close accounts of users who register with BetStop.
- Sending any marketing to self-excluded individuals is not allowed.
- ACMA can issue formal warnings or enforce legal undertakings.
ACMA completed separate investigations into each brand. The agency confirmed that Buddybet failed to shut down wagering accounts of people on the self-exclusion register and even sent marketing materials to them. Buddybet has since left the Australian market and will not face further action.
Ultrabet was found to have reopened an account at the end of a user’s exclusion period and allowed them to place bets. It also sent marketing to another self-excluded person. Rules under BetStop make it clear that accounts must not be reopened after a person’s exclusion period ends. Marketing communications are also prohibited.
Due to these breaches, Ultrabet agreed to a court-enforceable undertaking. The brand must now review its internal compliance procedures and make necessary changes to prevent future violations.
ACMA also looked into VicBet and Topbet. Both brands sent marketing to individuals on the self-exclusion register, violating BetStop regulations. ACMA issued both operators with formal warnings.
ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood said enforcement will continue. “Betting services must have systems in place that respect the decisions of people to self-exclude, or face further consequences,” she stated.
BetStop is designed to give individuals full control over their gambling choices by allowing them to block access to betting platforms and promotions. The system depends on compliance by licensed operators to remain effective.
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