2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s future: measures to improve integrity, animal welfare and overall well-being of the racing industry

A re-elected majority Liberal Government will move decisively to assist the industry with a comprehensive suite of measures designed to improve integrity, animal welfare, and the overall well-being of the industry.

Minister for Racing, Felix Ellis, said the Liberals recognise that racing is a way of life for many Tasmanians and will progress a new integrity model; one that is modern and effective, and based on evidence and best-practice.

“The Tasmanian Racing Industry supports job-creation and economic activity, particularly in regional Tasmania. We want to see that continue, to remain a strong and vibrant industry,” Minister Ellis said.

“There is no doubt that the industry has had a tough time of it over the past 12 months, and our suite measures will help to address this.

“This includes the establishment of an independent Tasmanian Racing Integrity Commissioner, tasked with comprehensive oversight of the administration and regulation of the Tasmanian racing industry. 

“Tasracing will be provided with the necessary resources to manage all three codes of racing, including pre-race day and race day management, stewards and daily animal welfare.

“We recognise how important it is to have a healthy industry which is why we will establish an Equine Code of Practice for the care of thoroughbred and harness racehorses. We will also enforce a Greyhound Welfare Code of Practice, with provisions around minimum standards for the care, housing and health of dogs in the industry.

“Financial support will be continued for the Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP), to rehome up to 150 greyhounds per year.

“We also know how important it is to encourage professional development and training opportunities for Tasmanian stewards, so they are equipped with the skills, and confident in their knowledge of the rules and integrity of racing. 

“To support workforce renewal, we’ll be providing $100,000 over the next two years, as well as $250,000 for the successful Cadet Stewards Program to fund three new positions.

“In consultation with industry, the Liberals will deliver a solution for North-West harness and greyhound racing. We will deliver a solution, but at the right price, not any price. 

“By investing in training facilities that suit the daily requirements of North West harness and greyhound trainers, we can ensure they can train and prepare their horses and dogs at a fit-for-purpose training facility on the coast. 

“Whilst consultation occurs, we will invest $2 million in Burnie, Spreyton and Carrick Racecourses to ensure that racing remains vibrant in regional and rural areas.

“Additionally, we will provide $350,000 to support the thoroughbred and harness breeding sectors, and we will also ensure that funding received by the industry from the Point of Consumption tax is maintained in real terms.”

Only a re-elected majority Rockliff Liberal Government will protect the future and integrity of Tasmanian racing, strengthen animal welfare outcomes and back an industry that employs thousands of people in regional communities.

The cost of this suite of measures is $2.81 million in operating expenses and $2 million in capital expenditure.