Australian Story: Turning the Page profiles Luke Bateman, whose life has moved from early NRL promise to a public reckoning with gambling addiction and, more recently, an unexpected new chapter as a writer and reading advocate.
The episode gives ABC viewers a timely, human-focused entry point into a broader national conversation about gambling harm, sporting culture and the pressure placed on young athletes. It also offers a different kind of recovery story, one shaped not only by accountability, but by books, writing and the audience Bateman found online.
Luke Bateman’s Story
Bateman grew up in western Queensland with a dream of playing rugby league. By the age of 12, he had signed with the Canberra Raiders and appeared to be on a path toward a long career in the NRL.
At 18, after a team bonding session at a casino, Bateman began gambling. What followed was a destructive addiction that cost him hundreds of thousands of dollars and eventually forced a turning point with his family.
From Rugby League To Reading
After his parents delivered an ultimatum, Bateman worked to repay his debts through his stepfather’s logging business and began rebuilding his life away from the game. He has since become an advocate for gambling reform.
The episode also follows Bateman’s reconnection with reading and writing. A BookTok video led to unexpected attention, opening the door to publisher interest and a new mission: encouraging young boys to pick up books.
When To Watch Australian Story
Australian Story: Turning the Page airs Monday 27 July 2026 at 8.00pm on ABC and ABC iview.
More ABC coverage is available on the TV Central ABC section. Episodes of Australian Story are available through ABC iview.
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