ACMA issues warnings to former AFL players over illegal gambling promotion

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued formal warnings to former AFL players Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson for promoting the illegal online gambling service Vegastars. According to the agency's statement dated 22 October 2026, the posts were made in March and April this year.

ACMA said the content included the service's name, logo and web address, as well as gameplay footage and promotional commentary. Robinson's posts were found on Instagram and on the YouTube channel of the Rip Through It podcast, while Mathieson's posts were found on Instagram. In January 2026, the agency had asked internet service providers to block access to Vegastars.

ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood said both men accepted responsibility, quickly ended their involvement and removed the promotional content. The agency said it has stepped up its oversight and chose the formal warning route to ensure compliance in the future.

According to ACMA's statement, the maximum civil penalty for an individual who promotes an illegal gambling service is AU$65,520 per breach. The upper limit for facilitating access by providing a link or directing users is AU$2,730,000. These are the statutory maximums, not penalties imposed on the two former players.

From 1 January 2027, licensed betting companies will be banned from using well-known figures such as athletes and influencers in advertisements. The warnings issued to Robinson and Mathieson are not related to these new rules and are based on the existing provisions on promoting illegal services.