Greyhound racing will no longer be publicly funded in Tasmania by 2029, Pulse understands.
The move comes as the state’s 20-year funding deal with Tasracing is set to expire in four years.
Over the past 15 years, the agreement has funnelled $74.6 million of taxpayer money into the greyhound industry.
Animal welfare groups have ramped up calls in recent days to end the sport for good, following the death of champion greyhound Raider’s Guide.
The dog was euthanised after suffering fatal spinal injuries during a race.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff is expected to announce the funding cut and future of the industry on Sunday, as he works to shore up crossbench support to keep his minority Liberal government afloat.
Key independents Kristie Johnston and Peter George have long backed campaigners pushing for the industry to be shut down.
Tasmania spends $12.70 per person each year on greyhound racing – twice the national average – despite the sport contributing just 0.2% to the state’s economy.
While a complete ban has not yet been confirmed, the loss of public funding effectively spells the end of the industry.
The shift mirrors a global trend, with New Zealand set to phase out greyhound racing entirely by July 2026 and the sport already banned in 44 US states.
The state government has been contacted for comment.
