Former AFL Players Promote Illegal Online Casinos to Fans on Social Media

The controversy started after the two former AFL stars, Mitch Robinson and Rhys Mathieson, both of whom used to play for the Brisbane Lions, shared content promoting an online casino to their social media audiences.

In the videos, the former Brisbane Lions players encouraged followers to visit the site and even promoted a “$5,000 giveaway,” using their platforms to drive traffic and engagement.

If you haven’t been living under a rock, you probably know that gambling advertisements are a hot topic at the moment. Namely, Australia has strict rules around gambling advertising, especially when it comes to online casino games. Promoting these services to Australian users is not allowed, regardless of where the platform is based.

Both Robinson and Mathieson have large followings in the millions, meaning the content was seen by thousands of users, including younger audiences.

The timing also adds to the concern. The posts come as Australia moves to tighten gambling advertising rules even further, with PM Albanese saying the main focus will be on reducing exposure across sport and social media.

The bigger problem is that this was not a one-off paid promotion. Robinson and Mathieson have been actively promoting the casino across multiple forms of content and encouraging their followers to check it out and take part in the giveaway.

Australian laws are very strict regarding this matter, and promoting online casino-style gambling to local users is not allowed

According to critics, the bigger issue is how easy it is to do this through social media. With large followings, even a few posts can reach thousands of users quickly, including younger audiences.

This makes enforcement more difficult because promotions can spread more quickly than traditional advertising channels.

This is not the first time either player has made headlines since stepping away from the AFL.

Rhys Mathieson was recently handed a 3-year ban after testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs, following his departure from the AFL.

Mitch Robinson has also remained active online and has often been in the spotlight since retiring, regularly sharing strong opinions on his social media channels. However, their latest action carries more serious legal risks.

Namely, the Australian Communications and Media Authority has already warned that promoting illegal gambling services can lead to serious penalties, especially when influencers are involved. Fines can reach tens of thousands per breach, and in more serious cases, go into the millions.

At the same time, authorities continue to block illegal gambling websites, but enforcement remains difficult. The next steps for Robinson and Mathieson will depend on whether regulators decide to take action.

Critics have since used this case to highlight how social media has become one of the main channels for gambling promotion, further showcasing why stricter advertising rules are needed.