Further support for Tasmania’s racing sector
12 November 2020
Jane Howlett MLC
Minister for Racing
2020-21 Budget: Further support for Tasmania’s racing sector
Tasmania’s racing industry injects around $103 million a year into the Tasmanian economy including in rural and regional areas and this year’s State Budget recognises its importance through further support and investment.
A total of $42.2 million will be invested into the state’s racing industry this financial year with a further $8 million to be provided over the next two years to underpin the relocation of the Devonport greyhound and harness tracks.
The funding in the 2020-21 State Budget means that investment in the industry has grown by more than $9.5 million since we came to Government in 2014, helping pay for racing integrity services, stakes, animal welfare measures, infrastructure and racing operations.
There is no doubt COVID-19 provided a great challenge for all three racing codes in Tasmania, but industry participants rose to the challenge and we can now look forward to a period of growth.
Already we have announced a six per cent increase in stakes for racing this year, putting more money in the pockets of trainers, owners, jockeys, drivers and other industry participants. This means stakes have now increased 12 per cent since 2018.
We are also spending record levels to enhance the welfare of horses and greyhounds before, during and following their racing careers.
I recently announced new funding for de-sexing of rehomed greyhounds with the new Greyhound Adoption Program facility, Tasmania’s very first dedicated facility, expected to increase adoptions over coming years. A new voucher program for retraining of retired racehorses has also just commenced.
We are also supporting new and improved infrastructure at Tasmania’s race tracks. $8 million will be provided to Tasracing for the development of new greyhound and harness racing facilities to replace those at the Devonport Showgrounds. Our election commitment of $250,000 for community racing infrastructure grants will also continue this financial year.