Luke Bateman, a former NRL player turned book influencer, has been widely praised for his candid discussion about a gambling addiction that nearly derailed his life. Speaking on the second episode of I’m A Celebrity, Bateman detailed how he was first exposed to gambling in his late teens, a habit that quickly spiraled out of control.
Now 30, Bateman explained that the combination of downtime and disposable income made gambling an alluring escape from the pressures of professional sports. “From the moment you’re 18, what you do is you train, you play, and then you go to the pub and gamble. And that’s just like bred into the culture,” he shared with fellow contestants Barry Williams and Nath Valvo.
The Culture of Gambling in Australian Sports
Bateman’s revelations have sparked a broader conversation about the pervasive gambling culture within Australian sports. He claimed that “every second bloke” on his team had a gambling issue “to some degree,” though he admitted to taking it to the “nth degree.” This culture, he suggested, is not just about the thrill of winning but also about the social environment young athletes find themselves in.
Nath Valvo queried whether the attraction to gambling was driven by a desire to chase victory, but Bateman attributed it more to the combination of youth, money, and cultural exposure. “And you got no respect for [the money], and you have a lot of spare time,” he said, highlighting the vulnerability of young athletes.
Personal Struggles and Recovery
Bateman joined the Canberra Raiders’ Under 20s team at 18, eventually making it to the senior squad by 2019. During this period, he earned up to $400,000 annually, yet his gambling addiction led him into financial distress, with his mother covering his mortgage at one point. He described how easy it was to place large bets discreetly through phone apps, estimating losses of around $500,000 over several years.
A severe injury in 2019 forced Bateman to confront his addiction, presenting him with a stark choice: continue down a destructive path or seek help. Opting for the latter, he entered rehab and successfully overcame his addiction. “I’m very open and honest and direct when it comes to all of my struggles in my past,” he confessed on I’m A Celebrity, emphasizing the importance of transparency in overcoming addiction.
National Reaction and Broader Implications
Viewers have lauded Bateman for his openness, with many taking to social media to express their support. “Good for Luke…I think it’s so important to be honest about such issues,” one viewer commented, while another highlighted the dangers of too much spare time for athletes, advocating for education or work alongside sports.
Gambling in Australia: A Statistical Overview
Bateman’s story is a microcosm of a larger national issue. According to government figures, gambling is deeply ingrained in Australian culture.
In 2022-23, Australians bet $244 billion on legal forms of gambling, losing approximately $25 billion.
The Grattan Institute reports that Australia has the highest gambling losses per adult globally, with average annual losses of $1,635.
While the number of gamblers is decreasing, the stakes are rising.
Two per cent of gamblers, representing about 1 per cent of the adult population, have severe problems, spending 60 times more than non-problem gamblers.
The most problematic form of gambling is poker machines, responsible for 51 to 57 per cent of gambling issues, largely due to their accessibility in pubs and clubs.
Looking Forward: Addressing the Issue
Bateman’s story underscores the urgent need for cultural change within sports and society at large. As Australia grapples with its gambling problem, stories like Bateman’s highlight the importance of addressing the root causes and providing support for those affected.
For those struggling with gambling, resources such as Gambling Help Online and the helpline at 1800 858 858 offer crucial support. As the conversation continues, Bateman’s bravery in sharing his story may inspire others to seek help and drive meaningful change in the sporting community and beyond.
