Tasmania’s peak racing body has committed to consulting with all stakeholders after the state government’s decision to end greyhound racing by mid-2029.
Tasracing, which oversees greyhound, harness and thoroughbred racing across the state, released a three-sentence statement in response to Premier Jeremy Rockliff’s announcement that government funding for the sport will stop within five years.
“Tasracing notes the announcement by the Tasmanian Government that it intends to phase out greyhound racing by 30 June 2029,” the statement read.
“We will engage with all industry code (greyhounds, harness and thoroughbreds) stakeholders and other stakeholders about the decision.”
“Tasracing also notes the government’s intention to establish a parliamentary committee to assist with any transition out of the industry for greyhounds and greyhound industry participants.”
Rockliff announced the phase-out on Sunday, saying the sport no longer matched community expectations.
The Liberal government’s decision follows growing public opposition to the industry.
Polling by EMRS has shown strong community sentiment against greyhound racing, with 79% of Tasmanians wanting the sport gone altogether.
The parliamentary committee will focus on transition issues, including rehoming racing greyhounds and supporting workers as the industry winds down.
Premier Rockliff on Monday told reporters other forms of racing would continue to operate and be strictly enforced.
“The greyhound racing industry is in decline. It’s at a crossroads and it no longer meets community expectations,” he said.
“That’s why we drew a line in the sand in our announcement.”
