Taking a Break

If you’re thinking about stepping back from online gambling, there are practical ways to limit your access. We outline the main options available to Australian players: direct restrictions with the operator, national self-exclusion tools, and device-level controls.

Restricting access with the operator

When you register with an online casino, you can request a self-exclusion directly through the platform. This prevents you from accessing your account, opening a new one with the same operator, and—in most cases—receiving promotional emails. The process typically involves contacting the operator’s support team, who will verify your request and apply the restriction. The operator usually publishes its responsible gambling policy and self-exclusion procedures on their website; you can review these details and initiate the process there. A self-exclusion with one operator covers only that operator; it does not block access to other licensed sites.

BetStop: the national register

Australia’s National Self-Exclusion Register, known as BetStop, offers broader protection. A single registration blocks you from all licensed Australian online and phone wagering services for a period of your choosing—from three months to a lifetime. The registration is free and confidential. Once active, licensed operators are required to cross-check new account applications against the register. BetStop is managed by the Australian Government and covers online and telephone betting services operating under Australian licenses.

Limiting access at device level

Beyond operator restrictions, you can limit gambling access directly on your device. Most smartphones and computers include parental controls or content-filtering tools that let you block specific websites or apps. Browser extensions designed to restrict access to gambling sites are also available, though these require ongoing management. Router-level controls can block certain domains across all devices on your network. These measures work independently of the operator’s cooperation and persist if you change your password or try to access from different browsers or devices.

Finding support

If you’re concerned about your gambling habits, several organisations provide free, confidential counselling:

• National Gambling Helpline: 1800 858 858 (24 hours, seven days)
• Gambling Help Online: Australia-wide free service available 24/7
• Gambler’s Help: free counselling and support in Victoria
• Lifeline: 13 11 14 (free call, available around the clock)

These services offer crisis support, ongoing counselling, financial advice, and referrals to local services. Many provide both telephone and online support options.