Coalition set to support Racing NSW chairman’s extension

Racing NSW would be subject to scrutiny by the Auditor General and under a proposal by Liberal Leader Mark Speakman which would see chairman Russell Balding’s term extended.

Racing NSW would be subject to scrutiny by the Auditor General and could be forced to hand over internal documents to parliament under a proposal by Liberal Leader Mark Speakman which would ensure Chairman Russell Balding’s term is extended for another two years term is extended.

The Coalition will support the Minns government in extending Mr Balding’s term, but will seek to subject the body to more oversight when legislation to give Mr Balding two more years at the reins goes to parliament.

“The Coalition has resolved to support the legislation, but we will be moving amendments,” Mr Speakman said.

He said Racing NSW, under Mr Balding, has “performed extraordinarily well”.

“Mr Balding has been a very successful chairman, and we think it’s in the interests of the racing industry and the state generally for that to continue for a couple of years,” he said.

Chairman of Racing NSW, Russell Balding could have his contract extended for another tern, Picture: Dan Himbrechts

Opposition Leader Mark Speakman

However, the Coalition wants “stronger governance structures” put in place for the industry regulator.

Mr Speakman wants Racing NSW to be subject to scrutiny from Auditor General, and the Coalition will move for a review of the legislation governing the body within the next six months.

He said Racing NSW should be subject to “more scrutiny from parliament,” potentially including being covered by rules allowing the upper house to demand internal documents be produced.

Mr Speakman also suggested Racing NSW could be forced to attend budget estimates hearings.

Coalition Racing spokesman Kevin Anderson was scrambling on Tuesday to finalise the Coalition’s amendments to legislation which will extend Mr Balding’s term for another two years.

Influential cross bencher, Sydney MP Alex Greenwich, will move to ensure a succession plan is put in place before the extended term expires.