Two former Australian Football League (AFL) players operating as online influencers have been issued with formal warnings by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) for promoting an illegal online gambling service.
Investigations conducted by the regulator revealed that former AFL players Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson published promotional material for the prohibited online gambling operator Vegastars. Under Australian legislation, the promotion of unauthorized and illegal gambling services is strictly prohibited.
The promotional content in question was published between March and April 2026, featuring videos that displayed the platform’s name, corporate logo, and website address alongside direct gameplay footage and commentary endorsing the service. Prior to taking action against the influencers, the ACMA had already targeted Vegastars directly, requesting that Australian internet service providers block access to its website in January 2026.
Specifically, Mitch Robinson disseminated promotional content via Instagram and through the Rip Through It podcast on YouTube, while Rhys Mathieson shared promotional material on Instagram.
Regulatory oversight and influencer accountability
Commenting on the enforcement action, ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood noted that the authority has intensified its monitoring of illegal gambling promotions across online channels. The formal warnings represent a direct continuation of recent enforcement measures targeting individual social media influencers under Australian gambling 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 stated.
“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 publicize illegal gambling services face civil penalties of up to sixty-five thousand five hundred twenty dollars per contravention. Furthermore, individuals who facilitate access to illegal gambling services, such as by providing hyperlinks or directing users directly to those platforms, may encounter severe penalties reaching up to two million seven hundred thirty thousand dollars.
Additionally, from January 1, 2027, new wagering advertising laws will prohibit licensed wagering providers from utilizing current or former athletes, social media influencers, and other notable public figures to promote wagering services.
