Landmark Review to Secure Future of Queensland Racing Industry
- Crisafulli Government releases discussion paper to inform comprehensive Racing Review
- Industry participants and stakeholders are encouraged to get involved
- Review will focus on ensuring a sustainable industry across all three codes of racing
- Matthew McGrath appointed as Chair of the Review
The Crisafulli Government has taken the first step towards a landmark review of Queensland's racing industry by releasing a discussion paper, calling on participants and stakeholders to have their say.
The discussion paper is set to be the most substantial of its kind in Queensland racing for more than 25 years and will help inform the Review.
The racing industry's economic contribution to the state exceeds $2.4 billion per year and employs around 16,000 Queenslanders.
Importantly, more than half of the economic benefits from racing go directly to regional Queensland communities.
The Review will examine how we can ensure the long-term sustainability of Thoroughbred, Harness and Greyhound Racing across Queensland.
It will look to further strengthen the integrity of Queensland's racing industry, recommend the necessary steps to deliver modern and fit for purpose infrastructure and safeguard the ongoing strength and success of country racing.
The Review will also foster a collaborative relationship among stakeholders to guarantee the long-term viability and growth of each racing code is delivered with high animal welfare standards as a priority.
Matthew McGrath has been appointed Chair of the Queensland Racing Review. Mr McGrath is an experienced businessman, former Chairman of the Australian Turf Club, and a current board member of the Cronulla Sharks.
Minister for Sport and Racing Tim Mander said it was important participants and stakeholders had their say through the discussion paper process.
"We committed to a review into all aspects of racing, and this discussion paper is the first step," Minister Mander said.
"The racing industry is a major contributor to the state's economy, an important employer for many hard-working Queenslanders and is at the heart of communities right across Queensland.
"From our biggest cities to our smallest and most remote towns, racing brings our communities together.
"We want to ensure the long-term financial stability, viability, and integrity of racing in the state.
"I encourage all stakeholders and participants to have their say and play an active role in this process to ensure a prosperous future for the industry, for the participants, for the employees and volunteers and for the communities right across the state who simply love racing."
Matthew McGrath said it's a great privilege to Chair the Review into the three codes of Racing in Queensland.
"The Racing Review brings many elements together and will look at social, financial, and employment impacts and the welfare of those who compete on the track and vitally for the horses and greyhounds," said Mr McGrath.
"The Review Team aims to be at as many racetracks as possible, meeting industry participants, punters, race goers and the teams of people who manage and work in the Clubs.
"The recommendations will be pragmatic and progressive to ensure the best future for Queensland racing."
The Racing Review discussion paper will be open for input until 30 March 2025.
