A former professional rugby player, whose career was significantly impacted by a debilitating gambling addiction, is bringing attention to the alleged exploitative tactics employed by betting companies in Australia.
During his statement at the Australian Senate Environment and Communications Legislation Committee hearing on August 3, Luke Bateman revealed how bookmakers maintained his gambling addiction tied to horse races and National Rugby League (NRL) games. He shared that sportsbooks inundated him with not only free drinks and trips but also enticing offers like bonus bets, escorts, and illegal substances.
“There were instances where I was flown interstate to attend race days, escorted into marquees filled with food and drinks all day. Before my arrival, the VIP manager would ask me, ‘What drugs would you like for this weekend?’” Bateman recounted.
The former Canberra Raiders player emphasized that there was an implicit agreement to use that bookmaker exclusively during his travels in exchange for the hospitality and perks.
Executives Involved in the Scheme
This hearing is occurring as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s administration deliberates over a contentious gambling reform package aimed at limiting betting advertisements. Bateman and other advocates are pushing the Labor Party to uphold the recommendations from the 2023 Murphy report, which called for a complete ban on gambling marketing.
When pressed on whether he was mainly pursued by a single betting host, Bateman disclosed that company executives were complicit in the situation. On a lavish getaway to the Gold Coast, he revealed he socialized with high-level executives.
“The entire executive team of the company was present. All the management, in a private area, were using drugs together. I was partaking with them. We’re talking about the CEO, founders, and VIP managers,” Bateman said.
Although he refrained from naming specific individuals, Bateman indicated he was among the top clientele of various bookmakers.
Now a social media influencer focusing on reviews of fantasy and fiction books, Bateman has secured a deal for an autobiography detailing his gambling struggles, though he does not entirely place blame on the betting companies.
“I was a willing participant. I acknowledge my role. [However] these men occupy positions of power and influence. There is zero duty of care, absolutely no concern for you as an individual,” Bateman expressed.
“At only 21, I was young and impressionable, and these older men exploited my vulnerability and naivety,” he added.
Labor’s Commitment to Gambling Reform
Labor leaders have reiterated their pledge to gambling reform, with the latest regulatory proposal including a total ban on advertisements during live sports broadcasts.
Describing these as the “strongest-ever” measures to combat gambling-related issues, a Labor Party representative stated that the Albanese government aims to enhance BetStop, the national self-exclusion register for gambling.
“There are already restrictions in place for gambling companies regarding inducements, stipulating that direct marketing can only target customers who’ve agreed to receive such content,” the spokesperson noted.
The 2023 Murphy report, spearheaded by the late Labor MP Peta Murphy, was a bipartisan parliamentary inquiry advocating for a ban on gambling advertising and the establishment of a national gaming regulator. Australian governments stand to gain considerably, as state and territory administrations collect over $10 billion each year from gambling taxes.