The AFL has fined Carlton $75,000 for its handling of Elijah Hollands's on-field mental health episode during a match against Collingwood on April 16. The league determined that the club's delay in removing Hollands from play brought the game into disrepute.
Hollands, a 24-year-old former Gold Coast Suns player, was hospitalised five days after the MCG game. Footage from the match sparked concerns for his welfare among fans and others.
AFL chief Andrew Dillon stated that there were sufficient visual cues and performance data, along with knowledge of Hollands's history, to indicate he should have been removed from play earlier. The charge was against the club, not individuals.
Carlton will pay the full fine to the AFL's mental health partner, Headspace, which supports youth mental health. The club acknowledged the findings and confirmed the payment, emphasizing that Hollands's health and wellbeing remain the highest priority.
In response to the incident, the AFL will require all clubs to employ a full-time psychologist or equivalent. The league also plans to develop stronger guidance for players' psychological fitness to play.
