Permanent Self-Exclusion
Permanent self-exclusion is a serious step for those who recognise they have a gambling problem and need long-term protection. This feature closes your account for a minimum of 6 months, with options for longer periods or permanent closure.
Serious Decision
Self-exclusion is for individuals with serious gambling concerns. This is not a temporary break - it's a long-term commitment to stop gambling.
What is Self-Exclusion?
Self-exclusion is a voluntary program that allows you to exclude yourself from gambling for an extended period or permanently.
Key Features
- Minimum 6 months - Cannot be less than 6 months
- Cannot be easily reversed - Requires formal application to reactivate
- Complete account closure - All access to your account is blocked
- Cooling-off period - Mandatory waiting period before reactivation
Self-Exclusion Periods
| Duration | Description | Reactivation |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months | Minimum self-exclusion period | Can apply to reopen after 6 months |
| 1 year | Extended self-exclusion | Can apply to reopen after 1 year |
| 2 years | Long-term self-exclusion | Can apply to reopen after 2 years |
| 5 years | Very long-term self-exclusion | Can apply to reopen after 5 years |
| Permanent | Indefinite self-exclusion | Requires special application and assessment |
How to Self-Exclude
- Log in to your account - Sign in with your credentials
- Go to My Account - Click on your profile icon
- Select Responsible Gambling - Navigate to the Responsible Gambling section
- Choose Permanent Self-Exclusion - Click on 'Permanent Self-Exclusion' option
- Select your exclusion period - Choose from 6 months to permanent
- Enter your password - Confirm your identity
- Read the terms carefully - Understand what self-exclusion means
- Confirm self-exclusion - Final confirmation - this cannot be easily undone
This Cannot Be Undone Easily
Once you self-exclude, you cannot simply log back in. Reactivation requires a formal application process and cooling-off period.
What Happens When You Self-Exclude
Immediate Effects
- Account closed - Immediate suspension of all account access
- Cannot log in - Login attempts will be blocked
- No new accounts - Cannot create new accounts during exclusion
- Marketing stopped - All promotional communications cease
- Funds protected - Your balance is secured
During Exclusion Period
- Complete lockout - No access to betting or account features
- Cannot deposit - No way to add funds
- Cannot bet - All betting activity prevented
- Support available - Can still contact support for account closure or fund withdrawal
Withdrawing Funds After Self-Exclusion
If you have a balance when you self-exclude:
- Contact support - Email or call our support team
- Verify your identity - Provide necessary identification
- Request withdrawal - Specify withdrawal method and amount
- Processing - Funds will be processed and sent to you
Your Money is Safe
Self-exclusion does not mean you lose your balance. You can withdraw your funds by contacting support.
Reactivating Your Account
After Minimum Period
Once your minimum exclusion period has passed, you can apply to reactivate your account:
- Wait for period to end - Complete your chosen exclusion period
- Contact support - Email or call to request reactivation
- Complete application - Fill out reactivation request form
- Cooling-off period - Mandatory 24-hour waiting period after application
- Assessment - Your application will be reviewed
- Decision - Approval or denial based on assessment
Cooling-Off Period
24-Hour Minimum Wait
After applying for reactivation, there is a mandatory 24-hour cooling-off period before your account can be reopened. This gives you time to reconsider.
Reactivation Considerations
We may consider the following before reactivating your account:
- Reason for exclusion - Why you originally self-excluded
- Time elapsed - How long you've been excluded
- Support sought - Whether you've received gambling support
- Current circumstances - Your current situation and readiness
When to Consider Self-Exclusion
Warning Signs
- Cannot stop gambling - Repeated failed attempts to quit or cut down
- Serious financial problems - Debt, unpaid bills, or financial crisis due to gambling
- Relationship breakdown - Gambling causing serious relationship issues
- Mental health impact - Depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts related to gambling
- Illegal activities - Stealing or illegal acts to fund gambling
- Work or study affected - Job loss or academic failure due to gambling
Seek Help Immediately
If you're experiencing any of these signs, self-exclusion is an important step, but professional support is also crucial.
Self-Exclusion vs Take a Break
| Feature | Take a Break | Self-Exclusion |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum duration | 1 day | 6 months |
| Maximum duration | 6 months | Permanent |
| Automatic reactivation | Yes | No |
| Reactivation process | Automatic | Formal application required |
| Cooling-off to reactivate | None | 24+ hours |
| Best for | Temporary breaks | Serious gambling problems |
National Self-Exclusion Register
In addition to excluding from our platform, consider registering with the National Self-Exclusion Register (BetStop):
BetStop Features
- Multi-operator exclusion - Excludes you from all registered Australian gambling operators
- Free service - No cost to register
- Immediate effect - Takes effect within 24 hours
- Comprehensive protection - Covers online and venue-based gambling
How to Register with BetStop
- Visit betstop.gov.au - Go to the official BetStop website
- Create an account - Provide your details
- Verify your identity - Complete identity verification
- Choose exclusion period - Select from 3 months to permanent
- Confirm registration - Complete the self-exclusion
Support During Self-Exclusion
Professional Help
- Gambling Help Online - Free 24/7 counseling - 1800 858 858 or gamblinghelponline.org.au
- Gamblers Anonymous - Peer support groups - gamblersanonymous.org.au
- Financial counseling - Free financial advice - 1800 007 007
- Mental health support - Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636, Lifeline - 13 11 14
What to Do During Exclusion
- Seek counseling - Work with a gambling counselor
- Address underlying issues - Tackle root causes of gambling problems
- Rebuild finances - Work on financial recovery
- Repair relationships - Reconnect with family and friends
- Develop new interests - Find healthy activities and hobbies
- Join support groups - Connect with others in recovery
Common Questions
Can I cancel self-exclusion once it's started?
No, self-exclusion cannot be cancelled. You must complete the minimum period and then apply for reactivation.
What if I try to create a new account?
Creating a new account while self-excluded is a serious violation. Both accounts will be permanently closed, and you may be reported to regulatory authorities.
Can I self-exclude from just one type of gambling?
No, self-exclusion applies to your entire account and all forms of gambling on our platform.
What happens if I'm caught gambling elsewhere during exclusion?
While we cannot control other operators, we strongly advise against gambling anywhere during your exclusion period. Consider registering with BetStop for comprehensive protection.
Will my family be notified?
No, self-exclusion is confidential. However, we encourage you to inform trusted family members or friends for support.
Can I reactivate before my exclusion period ends?
No, you must complete the full minimum period before you can apply for reactivation.
Making the Decision
Self-exclusion is a significant decision that requires careful consideration:
- Be honest with yourself - Acknowledge if you have a gambling problem
- Don't wait for rock bottom - Act before things get worse
- It's not a failure - Self-exclusion is a brave and responsible choice
- Seek support - Don't go through this alone
- Focus on recovery - Use this time to heal and rebuild
You're Not Alone
Thousands of Australians self-exclude each year. It's a sign of strength, not weakness, to recognise you need help and take action.