Racing Victoria to help trainers with $3m fund

Racing Victoria will announce stable wellbeing initiatives which will include a subsidy to help trainers cover soaring WorkCover premiums.

generic horse racing picture victoria

Racing Victoria is set to invest more than $3m – one per cent of prizemoney – into stable wellbeing initiatives, including a 30 per cent subsidy for two years to help trainers cover soaring WorkCover premiums.

The racing regulator will make the announcement on Friday in conjunction with the Australian Trainers’ Association.

A service for trainers to manage workplace claims and get injured workers healthy and back to work is among the initiatives, along with enhanced safe and respectful workplace education.

Emergency support funding for stable staff involved in a serious racing-related incident and the renewal of Stableline, an independent 24-7 counselling service for workers in need, shall also be covered.

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The investment builds on the recommendations of the Racing Integrity Commissioner’s Review into Victim Support and Complaint Processes, published last September.

RV chief executive Andrew Jones welcomed the changes.

“All three initiatives are critical to the sustainability of our industry,” Jones said.

“We thank the ATA for its collaboration and trust these changes will be supported by all Victorian owners and participants.”

A one per cent prizemoney contribution, to support trainers and their staff, from February 1 will mirror the current take outs for equine (two per cent) and jockey (one per cent) welfare programs.

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RV has boosted prizemoney, excluding club contributions, by $75m – 38 per cent – since 2018.

The WorkCover subsidy, backdated to July 1, will be removed after two years, with the remaining 0.5 per cent contribution going to trainer and worker welfare.

It is hoped by 2026 the streamlined workplace claims processes and improved safety around stables and training centres should naturally help to reduce premiums.

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ATA President Robbie Griffiths said significant challenges arise every day in working stables.

“This support - combining financial, workplace injury, and health and safety consulting services and education - will certainly help stables better manage many of their challenges,” Griffiths said.

“It is a tangible commitment by Racing Victoria for the long-term benefit of all Victorian trainers and their staff, and one that I am sure will be roundly applauded.”

Racing Queensland recently implemented a similar 30 per cent subsidy to help trainers in the Sunshine State.

Originally published as Racing Victoria to help trainers with $3m fund