ACMA warns AFL players against promoting illegal gambling

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has warned Australian Football League (AFL) players not to take part in promoting unlicensed online gambling services in the country. The authority reminded the public that some activities, such as online casinos, are completely banned in Australia.

ACMA specifically named Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson, who have become social media influencers in their post-football careers. The two were said to have worked with Vegastars, a service that is banned in the country, and to have broken the rules.

ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood said that after ACMA made contact, the two players accepted responsibility, immediately ended their relationship with Vegastars and removed all promotional content. Both were given formal warnings to ensure they comply with the law in the future.

Lidgerwood stressed that illegal gambling services can cause serious financial harm to individuals and families. She said it is against the law for influencers to promote these services. At this stage, penalties are mostly applied in the form of fines.

New rules on social media influencers and gambling advertising will come into force on 1 January 2027.