Luke Bateman tells inquiry gambling companies supplied him with cocaine and alcohol

Former rugby league player and TikTok influencer Luke Bateman testified before a parliamentary inquiry that gambling companies provided him with cocaine and alcohol during private events. Bateman alleged that the betting industry displayed no duty of care to its participants. The 31-year-old claimed he attended an exclusive Gold Coast event hosted by a gambling company where senior figures consumed illicit drugs with clients.

Bateman urged the Albanese government to implement stricter regulations on gambling advertising, emphasizing the need for tougher protections for vulnerable individuals. He stated that VIP account managers for gambling companies would offer him personalized inducements, including "bonus bets." During a private event, Bateman claims he witnessed the company's C-suite members engaging in drug use while he participated alongside them.

At the time, Bateman was earning $400,000 a year but had accumulated debts exceeding $250,000. He estimated that his gambling addiction cost him around $1 million. Anti-gambling advocate Tim Costello provided an example of the industry's alleged misconduct, stating that a person charged with illegal activities was given free accommodation at Star Casino and provided with escorts, drugs, and large betting amounts.

The government's proposed legislation caps the number of gambling ads broadcast per hour and bans advertising during live matches, but critics argue it falls short of a total ban proposed by a former Labor MP.