Tasmanian Government moves to officially ban greyhound racing with new legislation

Tasmania has introduced legislation to ban greyhound racing by 2029, ending a decade-long campaign by animal welfare advocates against the controversial sport.

Rosie Saville greyhound welfare advocate with greyhounds Jimmy and Abby along with Premier Jeremy Rockliff. Premier Jeremy Rockliff in relation to legislation to be introduced to phase out greyhound racing in the state. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Legislation to ban greyhound racing in Tasmania will be debated in the House of Assembly on its last sitting day for the year.

The Tasmanian Government is progressing the phasing out of greyhound racing, with legislation introduced today to end the code by June 30, 2029.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff posed with a pair of greyhounds on Parliament Lawns to mark the occasion.

“Today, we will debate legislation and pass legislation in the House of Assembly to end greyhound racing,” he said.

“I again thank all the advocates for their passion and their commitment and their love of their animals, and indeed, I say as well, we will end greyhound racing by 2029.

“I acknowledge the concerns of the industry and those within the industry that will be extremely disappointed by this decision, but this is in a measured way that supports the transition, and, most importantly, looks after the animals themselves.

“I’ve listened to their concerns, and I’ve obviously received feedback in various quarters around their concerns, but the decision has been made.”

Greyhound advocate Rosie Saville said the ban had been a long time coming.

“It hasn’t just happened overnight – it’s been ten years of campaigning.

“I first met with Jeremy ten years ago when he was the Minister for Racing. This is how long it’s been going on,” she said.

“Really, the industry needed to listen. They haven’t, and this is the consequence of not listening to animal welfare advocates about the care of their dogs.”

Tasracingsaid it would develop an industry-wide strategy to shape the future of racing in Tasmania through to 2050 in the wake of the ban.

“The comprehensive strategy will seek to establish a unified vision for the Tasmanian racing industry, with a strong focus on sustainability and long-term growth across all codes,” Tasracing said in a statement.

“The strategy development process will look to engage extensively with all industry stakeholders, including owners, syndicators and breeders, trainers, racing clubs and facilities, wagering and media partners, commercial partners, and government agencies and regulators.

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