The Australian football community is in mourning following the passing of Robert Walls, who died peacefully at the age of 74 after a courageous battle with cancer. A revered figure in the game, Walls leaves behind a legacy that spans more than five decades as a player, coach, commentator, and mentor.
Walls was diagnosed in 2023 with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer. After more than 250 nights in hospital and rounds of chemotherapy, he made the decision not to pursue further treatment. Supported by his family, he chose voluntary assisted dying under Victoria’s legislation, passing away in his East Melbourne apartment overlooking the MCG—a fitting place for a man whose life was defined by the sport he loved.
As a player, Walls was a dominant force for Carlton, playing 218 games between 1967 and 1978 and winning three premierships. He captained the club in his final two seasons and kicked 367 goals across his career. His transition into coaching was equally impactful. He guided four AFL clubs—Fitzroy, Carlton, Brisbane, and Richmond—and delivered Carlton’s 1987 premiership as senior coach.
Post-coaching, Walls became a respected media voice, known for his honest and insightful commentary. He continued to shape the game from the sidelines, mentoring players and coaches and briefly returning to Carlton in 2019 in a support role.
Walls was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2006 and elevated to Legend status in Carlton’s Hall of Fame in 2011.
Tributes have poured in from across the AFL world. League CEO Andrew Dillon called him “a pillar of football” and praised his integrity and passion. His influence can still be seen in the players he mentored and the standards he helped establish.
Robert Walls is survived by his children and grandchildren. He will be remembered not only for his on-field achievements but for his deep love of the game, his family, and his unwavering belief in leaving the game better than he found it.
