The AFL has fined Carlton $75,000 for not removing Elijah Hollands from the field while he was experiencing a mental health episode during round six against Collingwood. Hollands appeared to be acting erratically during the match at the MCG and was admitted to hospital for treatment several days later.
AFL Findings and Sanctions
The AFL found that Carlton should have removed Hollands from the game earlier based on visual cues, performance data, and the player's previously disclosed mental health challenges. The club's failure to do so brought the game into disrepute. AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon stated that the 'substantial sanction' was made against the club collectively rather than singling out individuals. 'What transpired during the game was something we haven't seen before, and while Elijah did undergo checks, he should not have been left on the field for that period of time,' Dillon said, adding that the incident highlighted areas for improvement. 'Whilst our physical injury protocols are strong and well understood, mental health presentations can be variable and are complex.'
Carlton's Response
Carlton acknowledged the AFL's finding that Hollands should have been removed from the field 'sooner than the 20-minute mark of the final quarter' and accepted the fine, but did not admit fault. The club stated that 'it supports its people, who are highly respected professionals with the utmost integrity, and operate with genuine care for all players and staff who represent the football club.' Carlton CEO Graham Wright added, '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.' The club cited the ongoing WorkSafe investigation and Hollands' privacy as reasons for not providing more information.
New AFL Measures
As a result of the inquiry, the AFL is implementing several measures to better support mental health. Clubs will now be required to employ a full-time psychologist, whereas previously many employed psychologists on a part-time basis. A new wellbeing governance committee is being established, alongside new standards and guidelines, expanded mental health literacy, and a review of football soft cap policies. AFL head of health and football Laura Kane said, 'There are lessons in this for all of us. The main one is that our duty of care must continue to evolve, and that must include mental health and wellbeing.' Kane also noted that Hollands contributed to the review, stating, 'I won't speak to the specifics of how Elijah is doing, but I will say that we're really grateful for his contribution and that of his family to this inquiry.'
Donation to Headspace
Although Blues coach Michael Voss defended his staff and accused the media of bullying, Carlton accepted the fine and will pay it to youth mental health service provider Headspace. In Australia, support is available at Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, Lifeline on 13 11 14, and MensLine on 1300 789 978. In the UK, the charity 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.
