ACMA warns former AFL players over promoting illegal gambling
Australian regulator ACMA has issued formal warnings to former AFL players Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson for promoting the unlicensed Vegastars platform. No fine was imposed because the two removed the content.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has issued formal warnings to former Australian rules football (AFL) players Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson. The pair promoted Vegastars, an online gambling service that is not licensed in the country.
The content, published between March and April 2026, featured the Vegastars name, logo, web address and game footage. Both men shared videos on Instagram. Robinson also covered the subject on his YouTube podcast "Rip Through It".
ACMA noted that it had taken action against Vegastars before, asking internet service providers to block the site in January 2026. Those who promote illegal gambling can face penalties of up to 65,520 Australian dollars per breach, while those who facilitate access to the service can face penalties of up to 2.7 million dollars. This time the agency issued only a warning.
ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood said the two men accepted responsibility, quickly cut ties with Vegastars and deleted all promotional content. Lidgerwood said all influencers should now consider themselves warned, and that those who promote illegal gambling will face enforcement action.
From 1 January 2027, it will also be prohibited for people considered "notable persons" to promote licensed gambling. The agency set out the details of the rules this week. In a separate decision, Puntaa Pty Ltd, which operates under the Picklebet brand, was fined 19,800 dollars for breaching self-exclusion rules.
Comments (0)
Be the first to comment.
Log in to comment.