Tasmania government to end funding for greyhound racing by 2029
It’s the second jurisdiction to make the call, with the premier saying it was “increasingly clear” the controversial industry “does not align with community expectations”.
The Tasmanian government will phase out its funding for greyhound racing by 2029, effectively eliminating the industry in the state.
Tasmania is the second jurisdiction in Australia to end greyhound racing, after the ACT in 2018.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said it was “increasingly clear” that greyhound racing “does not align with community expectations”.
“I’m concerned about the future of the industry and continue to be concerned about animal welfare,” he said.
“It’s time to draw a line in the sand and ensure an orderly exit from greyhound racing in Tasmania.”
The Liberal government will phase out its funding by June 30, 2029, with an oversight committee established to “responsibly map out the pathway forward”.
“As we deliver a measured and sensible phase-out of greyhound racing, I want to be crystal clear on my support for the broader racing industry, its participants, and our regional communities,” Mr Rockliff said.
Minister for Racing, Jane Howlett, said the Racing Integrity Commissioner would “provide advice and support to help guide this transition”.
“I am deeply committed to ensuring those in the greyhound industry, their families and their communities are supported through this transition,” she said.
RSPCA Tasmania have welcomed the decision to end government funding for greyhound racing, with a Nay report indicating a decline in support for greyhound racing in the state.
“Greyhound racing in Tasmania is propped up by taxpayers while putting the welfare of animals at risk,” RSPCA Tasmania chief executive Andrea Dawkins said.
“The community expects better, and it’s time for government policy to catch up with public sentiment.”
In an open letter to the Tasmanian premier, Greyhound Racing Victoria chair Peita Duncan said Mr Rockliff was “putting (his) personal ambition above the livelihoods of hundreds of greyhound racing participants”.
“To cave in and side with those who want to ban everything based on no facts is both soul-destroying and incredibly disingenuous for those who believed your previous commitments,” she wrote.
Originally published as Tasmania government to end funding for greyhound racing by 2029
