Carlton have been fined $75,000 by the AFL for their mishandling of Elijah Hollands as he experienced a mental health episode in round six. The incident occurred at the MCG three weeks ago, prompting an investigation and widespread criticism.
AFL and Carlton Statements: What Was Left Unsaid
Both the AFL and Carlton's statements regarding the incident were marked by what could not be said due to legal restrictions, medical confidentiality, and a WorkSafe investigation. There was universal acceptance that Hollands' privacy and wellbeing were paramount.
The AFL, as is customary in complex matters, issued a fine—more of a donation, critics say. The $75,000 penalty is unlikely to significantly impact Carlton, whose four pokie venues generated nearly $20 million in the last financial year. The AFL also announced measures to prevent recurrence, including mandated club psychologists, stronger healthcare governance, and a mental health media roundtable.
Carlton's Role Under Scrutiny
Carlton was found to have brought the game into disrepute, a term often meaning 'it's not a good look.' The club's chief executive, Graham Wright, stated: 'We accept the outcome in the interest of enabling all parties to move forward, while continuing to ensure the health and wellbeing of our people remains a priority.' This suggests acceptance of the fine but not the finding.
This stance aligns with the club's messaging from the start, from coach Michael Voss's press conference after the Collingwood game to subsequent statements. Voss shifted focus to the media, accusing coverage of 'bordering on bullying.' He asked: 'Maybe there's a few here that have struggled with some mental health... All I just ask is: what would you want?'
In response, many would say they would want their loved ones left alone and the club to provide care, which Carlton likely did. However, they would also want answers from the club about why Hollands was not protected when vulnerable. This question lies at the heart of the scrutiny, which came not only from media but also from Carlton supporters, fans of other clubs, and even non-sports followers.
Uncomfortable Questions for Carlton's Leaders
It is right that senior leaders at Carlton face tough questions. These individuals are not novices—the president is a former investment bank head, Wright and the football manager have decades of experience, Voss has been a senior coach since 2009, and the club doctor has extensive Olympic and team sports experience. Legal and ethical barriers prevent full answers, but a degree of contrition is not too much to ask. Calling the scrutiny bullying is a cop-out. Carlton, a powerful club, cannot play the victim.
In management speak, phrases like 'we'll lean into it' or 'we'll own it' are common after losses, but Carlton has struggled to find the right words for this incident. 'We accept the outcome in the interest of enabling all parties to move forward' does not suffice, nor does blaming those seeking answers. This remains an unsatisfactory response to a deeply unsettling incident.
If you or someone you know needs support, contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, Lifeline on 13 11 14, or MensLine on 1300 789 978 in Australia. In the UK, Mind is available on 0300 123 3393 and Childline on 0800 1111. In the US, call or text Mental Health America at 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.
