Australians are continuing to robustly embrace the Do Not Call Register, with more than 10 million numbers now registered. Impressively, this represents around two thirds of Australian residences with fixed-line telephones and almost 4.3 million mobile numbers. Almost 3,600 numbers, on average, have been registered every day since the register launched in May 2007.
‘These results demonstrate that Australians view the register as a really practical and effective way of reducing unsolicited telemarketing calls and marketing faxes,’ said ACMA Chairman, Chris Chapman.
According to ACMA research, nearly 90 per cent of consumers on the register after registration reported receiving significantly fewer unsolicited telemarketing calls.
The ACMA follows a graduated approach to compliance and enforcement of the Do Not Call Register legislation, and this approach works. In 2013-14, 92 per cent of businesses contacted by the ACMA about their compliance with the Do Not Call rules were the cause of no further complaints.
‘It’s reassuring that an overwhelming majority of businesses making telemarketing calls do the right thing,’ said Mr Chapman. ‘But for those that don’t, the ACMA continues to take decisive action for unsolicited telemarketing calls and marketing faxes.’
Australian mobile and home phone numbers used primarily for private or domestic purposes, as well as fax numbers, are eligible to be registered. Registering numbers is quick, free and easy, taking just a few minutes. Visit www.donotcall.gov.au or call 1300 792 958.
Australians are also encouraged to provide details to the ACMA of any telemarketing calls or marketing faxes received after 30 days of registering their numbers. Visit www.donotcall.gov.au or call 1300 792 958.
The Australian Do Not Call Register is a model for other countries establishing their own registers. In recent years, Italian and Singaporean government agencies have approached the ACMA for advice in developing their own Do Not Call Register.
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