ClubsNSW Launches Self-Facilitated Self-Exclusion

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ClubsNSW has introduced self-facilitated self-exclusion as the next major iteration of the Multi-Venue Self-Exclusion (MVSE) system. Since its inception, patrons wanting to self-exclude have been required to attend a gaming venue or organise a session with a gambling counsellor. This process often contains too much delay for a person on the cusp of taking this step to improve their relationship with gambling. By introducing this latest powerful update to the MVSE system, patrons can apply for a self-exclusion remotely and immediately upon making the decision to take a break from gambling.

Key Points

Self-facilitated self-exclusion allows patrons to exclude themselves without having to attend a gaming venue or waiting to meet with a counsellor.
This major advancement reduces the barriers for entry into self-exclusion.
Self-exclusion, combined with counselling, will always be the best intervention for patrons wanting to improve their relationship with gambling.

Since its launch, self-facilitation has been well received by patrons, counsellors and venues. Counsellors find that — particularly for patrons in remote locations — self-facilitation allows them to support their clients to exclude while they await access to counselling sessions. Clubs and hotels have also welcomed the ability to provide options for patrons enquiring about an exclusion that may not decide to proceed with the exclusion on the spot.

Upon a person applying for a self-facilitated self-exclusion, the submission will be sent to ClubSAFE’s experienced gambling counsellors for review. If the application was completed and submitted correctly, ClubSAFE will finalise the self-exclusion within three business days.

Self-facilitation is simply another avenue for patrons to self-exclude from gaming venues. Should a patron approach venue staff to self-exclude, the venue will still follow the traditional exclusion process, including describing the process to the patron to make them as comfortable as possible with their decision.

ClubSAFE has developed collateral for patrons who are reluctant to go through with a self-exclusion while on site. The collateral provides the patron with access to self-facilitations remotely. ClubSAFE will share this collateral with venues in due course. Members can also access new digital signage to display within their venues here.

The research is clear that self-exclusion, in combination with gambling counselling, provides the best possible improvements to a person’s relationship with gambling. The new self-facilitated self-exclusion process continually encourages patrons to engage with, or be referred to, gambling, family or financial counselling services.

Patrons can access the Responsible Gambling Initiatives page to find out more about the MVSE system, self-exclusion and available counselling services.