Key Takeaways
- Luke Bateman, former rugby player and TikTok influencer, told a parliamentary inquiry that gambling companies supplied him with cocaine and alcohol.
- Bateman says the betting industry failed to exercise any duty of care during his addiction, which cost him about $1m.
- He described attending an event in Gold Coast where senior figures took illicit drugs with clients.
Former rugby league player Luke Bateman has made shocking allegations against gambling companies, telling a parliamentary inquiry that these firms supplied him with cocaine and alcohol during his addiction to betting. The revelations come as Bateman, now an influential figure in the 'BookTok' community on TikTok, detailed how he spiralled into financial ruin worth approximately $1m.
Speaking at the inquiry on Monday morning, Bateman recounted a private event hosted by a gambling company in the Gold Coast where senior figures were present and reportedly took illicit drugs with clients. He stated that these companies did not exercise any duty of care towards him during his addiction, which ultimately cost him significant sums of money.
Bateman's testimony highlights the potential dangers associated with the betting industry and its interactions with high-profile individuals. His case is particularly concerning as it suggests a lack of oversight or ethical conduct from some gambling promoters.
The parliamentary inquiry, aimed at understanding the impact of the gambling industry on individuals, has now heard Bateman’s account. The hearing serves to bring attention to the broader issues surrounding addiction and corporate responsibility in the betting sector.
In his statement, Bateman emphasized that the event he attended was not a one-off incident but part of a pattern of behavior by some companies within the industry. He described feeling pressured into participating in such events, which contributed significantly to his financial and personal struggles.
The allegations have sparked calls for greater regulation and oversight of the gambling industry, with many questioning whether current measures are sufficient to protect individuals from exploitation or addiction.
Following Bateman's testimony, the parliamentary committee is expected to continue its investigation into the practices of various gambling companies. The inquiry aims to gather more evidence and hear from other stakeholders before making recommendations for policy changes.
