Former professional rugby league player Luke Bateman will testify at a Senate inquiry in Canberra, alleging that online wagering account managers offered to secure him illicit drugs to build personal relationships while he battled a severe gambling addiction. According to Bateman, the tactics were designed to keep him losing tens of thousands of dollars a month with specific companies.
Luke Bateman Reveals Gambling Addiction and Industry Inducements at Senate Inquiry
Luke Bateman, who played for the Canberra Raiders from 2015 to 2020, retired from professional sport with $250,000 in debt. Now 31 and working as a social media influencer, Bateman is scheduled to give evidence on Monday regarding his personal experience with wagering addiction. He told Australian Story that online wagering companies assigned account managers who offered bonus bets and invites to exclusive events with travel, hotels, food, and alcohol paid for to foster a sense of friendship.
Bateman alleged there were “multiple times” when account managers contacted him after he accepted interstate event invitations to offer illicit drugs. “If you’re going to Melbourne, they’re like, ‘Hey mate … if you need a couple of bags, let us know and we’ll have it organised for you,'” Bateman said. He stated these offers were tactics to strengthen bonds so he would continue gambling exclusively with their company, exploiting his youth and vulnerability.
Federal Government Proposed Gambling Reforms Face Industry Pushback
The federal government is currently advancing legislation to restrict television gambling advertisements between 6:00 AM and 8:30 PM, limit radio ads during school pick-up and drop-off times, and introduce an opt-out system for online ads. A federal government spokesperson stated that Labor is focused on implementing its proposal, which includes strengthening BetStop, the national register allowing people to opt out of bets and inducements.
Crossbench members, the opposition, and several backbench government MPs are pushing for stricter measures to tackle wagering inducements. Liberal MP Simon Kennedy supported tougher rules, noting that self-regulation has failed. In contrast, the peak industry body Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA) argued that the proposed measures go further than required and would materially reduce funding for broadcasting, sport, and racing while pushing consumers toward illegal offshore markets.
Did you know?
According to submissions provided for the Senate inquiry, medical experts and welfare charities are urging the federal government to strengthen its proposed gambling advertisement restrictions, while industry groups warn of financial impacts on local sports.
Stakeholder Positions on Online Wagering Restrictions
Different stakeholders hold sharply contrasting views on the scope of the federal government’s proposed advertising overhaul. While individual advocates and parliamentarians point to predatory marketing practices, industry bodies emphasize economic fallout.
- Luke Bateman and Parliamentarians: Advocate for banning direct promotions and inducements sent by text, email, or phone call, arguing that relentless targeting triggers relapses for recovering addicts.
- St Vincent de Paul Society and RACP: CEO Toby O’Connor and the Royal Australasian College of Physicians called for stronger action, including an end to online gambling advertising.
- Responsible Wagering Australia (RWA): Argues that restrictions will reduce vital funding flowing to community programs, local clubs, and racing, while increasing the threat of unregulated offshore betting platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key changes proposed in the federal government’s gambling legislation?
The legislation proposes restricting television gambling ads between 6:00 AM and 8:30 PM, limiting radio ads during school pick-up and drop-off times, establishing an online ad opt-out system, and strengthening the BetStop national self-exclusion register.
What did Luke Bateman allege regarding wagering account managers?
Bateman alleged that online gambling account managers offered him illicit drugs and exclusive travel perks to build personal relationships and ensure he continued losing money exclusively with their wagering company.
Why are industry bodies opposing the proposed reforms?
According to Responsible Wagering Australia, the proposed measures go further than necessary and will reduce funding for sport, racing, and local clubs while driving consumers toward unsafe, illegal offshore gambling markets.
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