Tasmania Government looks to phase out greyhound racing

The Tasmanian Government is to end its funding for greyhound racing across the state, effectively leading to a winding up of the heavily subsidised industry.

The timing coincides with the end of the current funding deal for the sport, which concludes as of 30th June 2029.

Coming just three weeks after Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff pledged support for the industry’s “longevity and sustainability”, the move seems to be a result of negotiations to secure crossbench support and avoid a no-confidence motion in the state's minority administration.

Following the recent state election, Premier Rockcliff's Liberals have 14 seats and Labor 10, with both need backing from the crossbench to make up the 18 required to form an administration.

An independent report earlier this year found that Tasmanian Government funding for greyhound racing was rising year-on-year faster than its annual spend on education, but returns were "diminishing".

In addition, Tasmania's racing industry has been mired in controversy in recent years, facing criticisms over transparency and animal welfare.

Nonetheless, in July, Premier Rockliff wrote to a regional greyhound club advising of his commitment to the industry’s sustainability and that he was working on a new funding deed to provide certainty. The swift policy reversal has drawn criticism. Greyhounds Australasia urged the government to reconsider, saying the closure ignores recent gains in safety and welfare standards.

However, speaking on Sunday, Premier Rockliff pledged to wind up greyhound racing citing concerns "about the welfare of participants and greyhounds" and stating "the reality is the greyhound industry is at the crossroads, is in decline and it is increasingly clear it does not align with community expectations."

The announcement of the end of funding in four years, will, according to the Tasmanian Government, allow for a "measured transition that focuses on the welfare of participants and greyhounds".

A Parliamentary committee will oversee the transition and provide support for affected people, with advice and support from Racing Integrity Commissioner Sean Carroll.

Industry advocates have highlighted that greyhound racing contributes $208 million to Tasmania’s economy each year.

Image courtesy of Betfair.