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"ACMA Targets MMA Fighter for Gambling Advertisements"

"ACMA targets influencers promoting illegal gambling sites" An MMA fighter received a notification about his posts that featured an offshore operator.

Written by Casino House Group Editorial Team

Published on July 9, 2026

Summary

"ACMA targets influencers promoting illegal gambling sites"
An MMA fighter received a notification about his posts that featured an offshore operator.
The fighter cooperated with ACMA's investigation as the regulator aimed to increase awareness.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is intensifying its efforts to crack down on illegal gambling in Australia. Despite the watchdog's ongoing attempts to ban these sites individually, illegal gambling operators continue to multiply, presenting a significant challenge.

ACMA investigates influencers, encourages cooperation and highlights enforcement ramifications

Despite significant progress in tackling the illegal gambling sector, marked by the banning of over 1,700 websites, the ACMA is slightly shifting its focus. Now, they're also targeting individuals who might be using their image and reputation to promote what the regulator considers illegal gambling operators. The ACMA's investigation alleges that in 2025, Jamie Mullarkey, a well-known mixed martial arts fighter, endorsed offshore gambling services, which are prohibited. It is claimed that Mullarkey was compensated for posting sponsored content on his Instagram account. The regulator emphasized that offshore gambling websites, particularly those offering games of chance, are against the law. ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood explained the case and the reasons behind the regulator's move against the operator. Athletes and social media influencers with large followings can greatly sway their audiences and may promote the use of illegal gambling services. This is the first time we've taken enforcement action against an influencer for violating online gambling regulations, and it should serve as a warning to others.

ACMA focused on raising awareness of illegal gambling operators to influencers, but serious consequences await all the same

The regulator isn't aiming to harshly penalize influencers but wants to raise awareness about the issue. Mullarkey received a formal warning and fully cooperated by ending his sponsorship immediately and providing all the necessary information to ACMA. Currently, ACMA aims to inform influencers that these partnerships are illegal and can lead to regulatory and legal consequences for those promoting unlawful gambling services. ACMA has reiterated that promoting unregulated gambling products can result in civil penalties of up to AU$59,400. Additionally, individuals who use hyperlinks to access banned gambling websites could face penalties as high as AUD$2,475,000.