Tonight | Australian Story on ABC: Luke Bateman turns the page after gambling addiction – Australian Story Luke Bateman profiles the former rugby league player as he reflects on gambling addiction, family accountability and a new life shaped by books and writing.
The episode gives ABC viewers a personal story with a wider Australian edge. Bateman’s experience sits across sport, gambling harm, recovery and literacy, with the former Canberra Raiders player now using his public platform to encourage young boys to read.
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.
Australian Story has built its reputation on intimate, first-person profiles of Australians at turning points in their lives. Turning the Page fits that format by following Bateman through the consequences of his addiction and the quieter rebuilding that came after it.
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.
For viewers who know Australian Story as a profile series, the appeal is the shift from sporting promise to personal reckoning. Bateman’s story is not only about what gambling cost him, but also about the discipline, family support and creative outlet that helped him move forward.
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.
