South Australia Expands Gambling Self-Exclusion Scheme Statewide
South Australia’s ‘Take a Break’ Scheme Now Statewide
The South Australian government has extended the ‘Take a Break’ gambling self-exclusion program across the entire state following a successful four-week trial conducted in November.
During the trial, the program was implemented in 32 gambling venues, with posters displaying QR codes that directed individuals to an online self-exclusion form. Once completed, the forms were processed by Consumer and Business Services (CBS), with exclusions taking effect the next business day. Participants could choose the types of gambling activities to be excluded from, ranging from three months to an indefinite period.
In the trial period, 19 individuals aged 19 to 79 enrolled in the program, with 11 women and 8 men participating. CBS data estimates that when the program is fully operational statewide, up to 226 exclusion requests could be processed in a similar timeframe.
Additionally, 20% of participants opted for referrals to gambling support services, highlighting the broader reach of the initiative. The expansion is a collaborative effort between CBS, the Australian Hotels Association South Australia, and Clubs SA.
Launch Coincides with Holiday Season
CBS emphasized the importance of the statewide rollout ahead of the Christmas season, a period associated with increased financial and emotional stress, potentially heightening gambling risks.
“This campaign is being rolled out in time for the holiday period, which often sees a rise in gambling activities,” a CBS spokesperson said. “It’s aimed at individuals who may not feel ready to discuss their gambling issues but recognize the need for help.”
South Australia also offers tools for third-party exclusion, enabling concerned individuals to apply on behalf of someone else. Those seeking assistance can access Gambling Help Online for confidential support and live counselling.
ACMA Cracks Down on Offshore Gambling Sites
Separately, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) continues its enforcement against illegal online gambling platforms. This week, ACMA requested internet service providers block six unlicensed gambling websites found in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
The blocked sites include Eddy Vegas, Lucky Friends, Lucky Ones, MoonWin, Slottie, and SpinsUP. Since 2019, ACMA has blocked 1,117 illegal websites and overseen the exit of over 220 unlicensed gambling services from Australia under strengthened regulatory measures introduced in 2017.
