ACMA Issues Warning to Robinson and Mathieson Over Vegastars Ads

The Australian Communications and Media Authority has handed down formal warnings to former AFL players Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson regarding their endorsement of the unauthorized online casino platform Vegastars.

As detailed in an ACMA media release from October 22, 2026, the offending promotions occurred between March and April of this year. The regulatory body noted that the content displayed the platform’s name, logo, and web address, alongside gameplay footage and commentary promoting the service.

Instagram and podcast promotions investigated

The regulator discovered that Robinson shared promotions on Instagram as well as the YouTube channel for his Rip Through It podcast. Meanwhile, Mathieson endorsed the service via his own Instagram account, according to ACMA.

These infractions occurred after ACMA instructed Australian internet service providers to block Vegastars in January 2026. This recent enforcement centers on publicizing an unlawful gambling provider rather than any licensing or operational approval.

Carolyn Lidgerwood, an ACMA member, stated that both individuals acknowledged their mistake, quickly ceased their participation, and deleted the promotional content. The agency added that it has stepped up its surveillance and utilized formal warnings to guarantee compliance moving forward.

“All influencers are now firmly on notice.”

The penalties issued to Robinson and Mathieson are strictly formal warnings and do not include monetary fines.

Warnings under existing illegal-gambling rules

The Interactive Gambling Act separates legal, licensed betting from banned or unlicensed interactive gambling platforms. Advertising an unlawful operation can trigger enforcement measures distinct from regulations governing authorized operators.

Within its announcement, ACMA noted that the maximum civil penalty for an individual who promotes or publicizes an illegal gambling service reaches AU$65,520 for each breach. Furthermore, it highlighted a potential maximum of AU$2,730,000 for enabling access, which covers the use of hyperlinks or guiding consumers to a platform. These figures represent the regulator’s statutory penalty limits rather than fines levied against either former athlete.

This incident follows a July warning issued by ACMA to a mixed martial arts fighter over illegal gambling promotions, highlighting the agency’s focus on sports personalities with digital followings.

Previously, CND covered ACMA warnings directed at four gambling companies concerning unlawful services, offering additional background on the authority’s enforcement efforts.

January advertising changes are a separate measure

Fresh limitations taking effect on January 1, 2027, will ban authorized betting companies from employing prominent figures—such as current and former sports stars and influencers—within gambling advertisements. Previous reports on Australia’s gambling legislation and the online advertising opt-out registry detail this wider reform initiative. ACMA has already released preliminary guidance for the industry regarding these upcoming mandates.

The warnings issued to Robinson and Mathieson pertain strictly to current laws against promoting illegal services. They do not constitute rulings that the pair violated the upcoming January rules.

The Australia gambling guide provides further details on the differences between lawful betting, prohibited online casino offerings, and consumer safeguards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who received the formal warnings from ACMA?

Former AFL players Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson were issued formal warnings by the Australian Communications and Media Authority.

What platform were they promoting?

Both former players promoted Vegastars, a prohibited online gambling service.

Did Robinson and Mathieson face any financial penalties?

No, the enforcement action consisted solely of formal warnings and did not involve fines.

When did the promotional activity take place?

The promotions occurred between March and April of the same year.

Are these warnings related to the upcoming January 2027 advertising restrictions?

No, these warnings relate to existing laws against promoting illegal gambling services and are separate from the restrictions taking effect on January 1, 2027.