Turning the music up loud and placing the handset next to the speakers when a telemarketer calls, or ‘having an argument with them when they don’t understand the word "NO," ’ is now a thing of the past for Jeanette Benz from Wodonga.

Mrs Benz’s phone number is Australia’s four-millionth to be listed on the Do Not Call Register.

The mum of three works full-time and has registered both her home and mobile phones to cut down on unwanted telemarketing calls.

‘I take great displeasure in being called between 6pm and 7pm, particularly when you’re in the middle of preparing or eating dinner, and getting the children organised,’ she said.

‘I was protesting to my girlfriend about these calls when she promptly handed me the information for the Do Not Call Register and since then, the calls have virtually stopped.’

The register was developed by the Federal Government in 2007 in response to complaints from the public about unsolicited telemarketing calls. Mobile, home and VoIP phone numbers can be registered as long as they are for private or domestic use.

The ACMA’s Chairman, Chris Chapman, said Mrs Benz’s story was typical of Australians who have listed their phone numbers with the register.

‘This figure is a milestone for the Do Not Call Register, indicating its popularity while reinforcing the message that the public wants to be able to choose whether or not it receives telemarketing calls,’ Mr Chapman said.

He added that a recent survey by the ACMA found 93 per cent of people noticed fewer telemarketing calls after registering their home phone.

Mr Chapman also said those who had already registered their phone numbers, particularly in the register’s first year, should remember to re-register their numbers this year.

‘A phone number remains listed on the Do Not Call Register for three years until its registration expires. Very importantly, this means registration needs to be renewed after three years or your number will drop off the register and you may start receiving telemarketing calls again,’ he said.

The re-registration and registration process is quick and easy and can be done anytime by logging on to www.donotcall.gov.au, or by calling 1300 792 958.