Former AFL Players Investigated for Promoting Illegal Online Casino
Investigation into Ex-AFL Players for Promoting Unauthorized Gambling
Two ex-players from Australian rules football are under scrutiny for allegedly using social media to endorse an unlicensed online gambling platform to their followers.
Regulatory Authority Issues Warning About Illegal Casino Promotions
Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson, both former Brisbane Lions players, are reportedly linked to promoting the offshore casino Vegastars. This site offers real-money games such as poker-style machines and roulette, which are prohibited when targeted at Australian residents.
The issue centers around promotional campaigns that appeared on the internet, including a giveaway offering prizes valued at approximately AUD 5,000. Authorities and advocacy groups highlight that such advertisements can entice Australians to engage with gambling services outside official regulation.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has emphasized that anyone facilitating or advertising unlawful gambling operations faces stringent penalties. Depending on the violation’s severity, fines can reach up to AUD 2.5 million. In recent years, ACMA has intensified efforts to hinder access to unauthorized gambling sites, successfully blocking over 1,500 since late 2019. However, enforcement remains difficult as operators often launch mirror sites to circumvent these blocks, which the regulator commits to monitoring and taking action against promptly.
Rising Unregulated Gambling Sparks Increased Demand for Oversight
Groups like the Alliance for Gambling Reform criticize the actions of the former players, stating that if accusations hold, their behavior reflects irresponsibility, especially given their influence on younger audiences.
The issue also highlights broader concerns about the rapid expansion of unregulated online gambling in Australia. Studies from Responsible Wagering Australia reveal that Australians lose billions annually to offshore gambling sites, with the illicit market growing faster than licensed operators.
Since retiring from professional sports, Robinson and Mathieson have developed a modest but dedicated fan base through a sports podcast they co-host, with Robinson also running a personal YouTube channel attracting tens of thousands of subscribers.
Regulators have recently increased their focus on influencers potentially directing followers towards illegal gambling services. Neither individual has publicly addressed the investigation so far. This inquiry coincides with political efforts aimed at curtailing gambling advertisements, particularly those that might reach younger demographic groups.
