Luke Bateman, a former rugby player, recently told an Australian parliamentary inquiry that his interactions with betting companies went beyond aggressive marketing campaigns. He alleged that industry figures regularly supplied him with drugs and alcohol and encouraged him to gamble heavily. While these statements have not been proven, they raise serious questions regarding Australia’s gambling industry.
VIP Programs Allegedly Included Access to Drugs
Bateman, who became an online influencer after playing in the NRL, described a culture centered on VIP betting programs that allegedly blurred the line between hospitality and exploitation. He described how he was flown to private events, placed in exclusive settings, and offered perks that went far beyond free bets or tickets.
One of Bateman’s more serious claims was that company representatives asked him what substances he wanted and made them available at private parties. According to the former player, such behavior was not hidden. During these events, senior betting company figures reportedly took drugs alongside clients. At that time, he was in his early twenties and was susceptible to promises of excess.
There’s absolutely zero duty of care, absolute zero care for you as a human. There’s zero care for your wellbeing, for your mental state, absolutely nothing of that.
Luke Bateman
Bateman admitted he was also responsible for these situations but argued that he was never truly in control. He stated that VIP managers constantly messaged him, offering him incentives and personalized promotions to keep him betting. Bateman’s wagering quickly became compulsive, and his losses eventually reached around AUD 1 million ($700,000), placing him in heavy debt despite his substantial salary.
Gambling Harm Is a Rising Issue in Australia
Bateman’s story may not be an isolated case. Tim Costello, chief advocate of the Alliance for Gambling Reform, told the hearing that high-value customers were often offered various incentives to keep them betting. He shared stories of individuals who were treated like VIP clients despite showing clear signs of problem gambling.
The inquiry comes amid growing concerns about the impact of gambling in Australia. A recent survey by Roy Morgan showed that millions of adults were affected in some way by their own betting or that of family members. The most commonly reported effects were financial pressure, mental health issues, and relationship breakdowns.
This testimony adds urgency to an already contentious political debate. Some lawmakers are pushing for tighter controls on VIP programs and inducements, while others are advocating for changes to advertising and regulation. The inquiry remains ongoing, and more witnesses are expected to reveal further details of the industry’s inner workings.