Australian Regulator Warns Former AFL Players for Promoting Illegal Online Gambling Service Vegastars
ACMA issued formal warnings to former AFL players Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson after they promoted illegal service Vegastars on social media and YouTube in March-April 2026. Both removed content and ceased involvement. The action precedes a full ban on athlete and influencer endorsements by licensed operators from 1 January 2027.
SCCG Take — Regulators are enforcing existing rules on illegal promotions while layering in 2027 restrictions on licensed endorsements. Operators must audit public figure partnerships now to avoid parallel compliance exposures.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority issued formal warnings to former Australian Football League players Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson. ACMA determined both promoted the illegal online gambling service Vegastars through social media and video content between March and April 2026.
The published material featured the Vegastars name, logo and website address along with gameplay footage and commentary. Robinson posted on Instagram and through the Rip Through It podcast on YouTube while Mathieson used Instagram. Both accepted responsibility after ACMA contact, ended their involvement and removed the content.
Intensified Enforcement Against Influencer Promotions
Carolyn Lidgerwood, an ACMA member, said the warnings formed part of the regulator’s ongoing enforcement efforts targeting individuals who promote illegal gambling platforms.
“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. 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.”
The step follows ACMA’s January 2026 request for Australian internet service providers to block access to the Vegastars website. Individuals face civil penalties of up to $65,520 per contravention for advertising illegal services. Facilitating access can result in penalties of up to $2,730,000. According to World Casino News, ACMA will continue monitoring and may pursue stronger penalties for breaches.
Preparations for January 2027 Advertising Restrictions
The warnings precede broader changes to Australia’s wagering advertising rules. From 1 January 2027 new legislation will prohibit licensed wagering operators from using current or former athletes, social media influencers and other notable people to promote their services. The existing prohibition on illegal gambling promotions applies separately and can already trigger action.
These measures tighten limits on prominent personalities in gambling marketing, particularly those who reach sports audiences. The developments underscore the regulator’s focus on both unlicensed platforms and the channels that direct users toward them.
Reporting: World Casino News
Generated by SCCG’s automated editorial system from published source reporting. SCCG Management holds editorial responsibility.
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