23 May 2019
Elise Archer MP
Minister for Racing
2019-20 Budget: Keeping Tasmanian racing in front of the pack
A total of $31.4 million will be invested into Tasmania’s racing industry to ensure the Hodgman Liberal Governments plan for sustainable growth can be delivered.
The funding in the 2019-20 Budget means that investment in this important industry has grown by more than $2 million since we came to Government.
Together with the strong financial position of Tasracing it will allow for growth in prize money, enhanced integrity services, an increased focus on animal welfare and major improvements to racing infrastructure.
The Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to ensuring that the momentum in the industry continues. Tasmania’s racing industry injects around $103 million a year into the Tasmanian economy and supports jobs in rural and regional areas, with over 5,000 Tasmanians either employed or participating in the industry.
This year’s Budget also includes funding of $350,000 to support thoroughbred and harness breeding programs, creating jobs in the breeding industry, and increasing Tasmania’s racing presence on the national stage.
The Government also remains committed to improving animal welfare outcomes, with an additional $30,000 commitment to Brightside Animal Sanctuary to assist in rehoming greyhounds.
That’s on top of last year’s $100,000 commitment to expand the Greyhound Adoption Program, with Tasracing now in the process of identifying a suitable greyhound re-homing facility.
This is a Budget that invests in growth in the racing industry, and the Hodgman Liberal Government will continue to support its sustainable growth well into the future.