TLDR Australia’s 2026-27 budget includes AU$112.7 million (US$73.3 million) over five years to reduce online gambling harms AU$39 million will go toward expanding financial counselling for individuals and families affected by gambling The national self-exclusion register BetStop will receive AU$28.7 million for upgrades and awareness campaigns Part of the funding comes from an increased levy on licensed gambling operators New gambling advertising bans during live sports broadcasts take effect in January 2027
Australia’s federal government has committed AU$112.7 million over five years to address online gambling harms, according to the country’s 2026-27 budget papers released on Tuesday.
The package, titled “Addressing Online Gambling Harms,” is backed by the Department of Social Services, the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts, and the Australian Communications and Media Authority. Ongoing funding is estimated at AU$18.1 million per year beyond the initial five-year term.
The funding is split across four main areas. Financial counselling services will receive AU$39 million over four years, transitioning to AU$10 million annually after that.
BetStop and Self-Exclusion Register Get a Major Upgrade
Australia’s national self-exclusion register, BetStop, will receive AU$28.7 million over four years. An additional AU$3.2 million per year will follow beyond that period.
The money is earmarked for expanding public awareness of the register, improving data-matching systems, and making the platform easier to use. BetStop requires licensed Australian bookmakers to cross-check and honour self-exclusion requests.
Another AU$22.6 million over five years is being directed toward enforcing wagering advertising reforms. This funding will also target illegal gambling services and protect consumers from harmful online lottery products.
A national public awareness campaign will receive AU$22.4 million over three years starting in the 2026-27 fiscal year. The campaign aims to encourage people affected by gambling harm to seek support.
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