Animal welfare advocates say New Zealand’s lead on phasing out greyhound racing shows the “time has come” for Tasmania to take action.
The move across the ditch to wrap-up the sport by mid-2026 was made on welfare grounds, with Racing Minister Winston Peters saying it was “in the best interest of the animal”.
Australia, however, remains one of only four countries worldwide—alongside the UK, Ireland and the USA—where greyhound racing is still allowed.
Mark Wild of Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania is spearheading the campaign to shut down the industry, this weekend launching a new petition he believes will reaffirm that most Tasmanians oppose the industry.
“With overwhelming public support to end greyhound racing, we urge the Tasmanian Government to take humane and decisive action to transition away from this harmful industry,” he said.
Two years ago, several organisations presented the largest e-petition in Tasmania’s parliamentary history asking for a ban on greyhound racing, with more than 13,500 signatures.
Greens MLC Cassy O’Connor is confident the latest petition will be successful and says it provides the Liberal and Labor parties “another opportunity” to listen.
“There’s a mood, not just in Tasmania, but all over the place for us to treat these gorgeous, gentle dogs with the respect that they deserve,” she said.
Against mounting pressure, TasRacing CEO Andrew Jenkins told participants in an industry update that they will “continue to monitor the issue in New Zealand”.
He described the situation in Tasmania as “very different” and said Racing Minister Jane Howlett is a “strong supporter of our industry”.
“As you know, Tasracing already has strict rules, policies and other strategies in place to enhance animal welfare outcomes for greyhounds,” he said.
“Litters are being responsibly bred, fewer greyhounds are being euthanised and more dogs are being rehomed.”
“And of course, the industry has zero tolerance for any type of animal cruelty.”
