Australia's Gambling Giants Under Pressure After Former NRL Star Exposes Shocking VIP Perks

Around AU$1 million lost, more than AU$250,000 in debt and years spent as a VIP customer — those were among the details former National Rugby League player Luke Bateman shared during Australia's parliamentary inquiry into gambling.

Bateman said his addiction escalated while he was still playing professionally, yet operators continued providing exclusive benefits instead of questioning his gambling habits. He described regular contact with VIP managers, who arranged event invitations, accommodation and other perks for high-value customers.

Claims go beyond traditional VIP programs

During his testimony, Bateman alleged that some VIP experiences extended far beyond standard promotional offers. He claimed he was offered access to illegal substances before certain racing events and described attending private gatherings where senior company representatives openly used illegal substances alongside invited guests.

Bateman acknowledged that his own decisions played a role in his addiction but said the industry should have intervened rather than continuing to provide benefits to customers displaying obvious signs of gambling-related harm.

The inquiry also heard evidence from gambling reform advocate Tim Costello, who referred to another high-value customer currently facing criminal proceedings linked to the theft of company funds. According to Costello, the individual allegedly received luxury travel, premium accommodation, escort services and access to illegal substances while generating millions of dollars in monthly gambling activity.

Costello argued that such examples demonstrate how VIP programs can prioritize retaining major customers instead of protecting vulnerable players.

Sportsbet and Tabcorp reject the allegations

The allegations presented during the hearing were directed at Sportsbet and Tabcorp, two of Australia's largest gambling companies.

Both operators strongly denied the claims. Sportsbet said it has zero tolerance for unlawful conduct and stated that no evidence has been provided to support the allegations. The company also noted that its VIP program has changed significantly in recent years and now includes enhanced responsible gambling measures.

Tabcorp likewise rejected the accusations, describing them as unsubstantiated. The operator said anyone making such claims should provide evidence directly to the relevant authorities so the allegations can be properly investigated.

The parliamentary inquiry is continuing to gather evidence from former customers, industry representatives and gambling harm advocates as Australia considers further reforms aimed at strengthening consumer protection and reducing gambling-related harm.

Australia maintains a strict regulatory approach

The latest hearing is part of Australia's broader effort to strengthen consumer protection in the gambling sector. The country has introduced a series of measures aimed at reducing gambling-related harm and continues to tighten oversight of the industry.

Only recently, Australian authorities warned they could pursue action against influencers accused of promoting gambling services to local audiences, highlighting the government's continued focus on player protection.

The wider impact on the industry

The companies have rejected the allegations, but the hearing may not be the end of the story. Questions surrounding VIP treatment have followed the gambling industry for years, yet few former high-value customers have publicly described their experiences.

Bateman's testimony could change that. If other former VIP players decide to come forward, regulators may face growing pressure to examine similar practices, while operators could find their VIP programs under far closer scrutiny.

The case is also being closely watched outside Australia. Should similar accounts surface in other regulated markets, authorities may begin taking a closer look at how VIP programs are managed and whether existing responsible gambling measures provide sufficient protection for vulnerable customers.