Two former Australian Football League (AFL) players turned online influencers have been issued with formal warnings by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) for promoting an illegal online gambling service.
Investigations by the ACMA found that former AFL players Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson published content promoting the prohibited online gambling service Vegastars. Australian online gambling rules prohibit the promotion of illegal gambling services.
The promotional content, published between March and April 2026, included videos displaying the service's name, logo and website address, as well as footage of gameplay and commentary promoting the service.
The ACMA had previously taken enforcement action against Vegastars, including requesting Australian internet service providers block its website in January 2026.
Mitch Robinson published promotional content on Instagram and through the Rip Through It podcast on YouTube, while Rhys Mathieson published promotional content on Instagram.
ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood said the ACMA has increased its monitoring of illegal gambling promotion online and the warnings are a continuation of recent enforcement action against individual social media influencers under these laws.
"Illegal gambling services can cause significant financial harm to individuals and families, and influencers need to be aware that promoting these services is against the law," Ms Lidgerwood said.
"After the ACMA contacted Mr Robinson and Mr Mathieson about the conduct, they accepted responsibility and promptly ended their involvement with Vegastars and removed all promotional material. We have now issued each with a formal warning to ensure their future compliance with the law.
"All influencers are now firmly on notice. Anyone who uses their online profile to promote illegal gambling services will face regulatory action which can include significant financial penalties."
Individuals who promote or publicise these services can face civil penalties of up to $65,520 per contravention. Those who facilitate access to illegal gambling services, including by providing hyperlinks or directing users to those services, may face penalties of up to $2,730,000.
From 1 January 2027, new wagering advertising laws will also prohibit licensed wagering providers from using current or former athletes, social media influencers and other notable people to promote wagering services.
