Good news for Australians who want to keep away unwanted marketers: the Australian Communications and Media Authority has announced that registrations on the Do Not Call Register will now be valid for eight years. The 8.5 million numbers already listed on the Register will automatically be extended to eight years, according to ACMA Chairman Chris Chapman.

In announcing the extension, ACMA noted that research it conducted in 2011 found that close to 90 per cent of those on the register had a reduction in unsolicited telemarketing calls after registration.  Undertaking enforcement action has almost certainly helped raise consumer awareness and increased industry awareness of their legislative obligations.

The Do Not Call Register is a free service where you can list Australian numbers (mobiles and landlines) that are used primarily for private or domestic purposes to opt out of receiving most unsolicited telemarketing calls. Fax numbers can also be listed on the register to opt out of marketing faxes. Register online at www.donotcall.gov.au or call 1300 792 958.