NSW Support Statement for Greyhound Racing in Tasmania
The NSW Greyhound Breeders Owners and Trainers Association are sincerely saddened by the recent announcement that the Tasmanian Government intends to cease funding the greyhound industry beyond 2029.
We stand in solidarity with our Tasmanian counterparts and offer any advice, resources, and assistance necessary to help reverse this deeply concerning decision.
This announcement is especially troubling given that, only three weeks ago, Premier Jeremy Rockliff assured the industry that racing would not cease. The rapid change in position not only undermines trust and also sends a damaging message to the next generation — that what leaders say does not matter, and that breaking promises for political convenience is acceptable.
The public narrative presented by the Government has been misleading. Claims that taxpayer money is being wasted on the greyhound industry are incorrect. The funding model for greyhound racing is self-sustaining — it is generated from wagering on the product itself, not from hard working tax paying revenue. This money flows directly into prizemoney, operational costs, and maintaining the industry.
Independent research shows the industry contributes approximately $54 million in annual economic benefit to Tasmania, with flow-on effects to countless local businesses and communities. This is money that benefits the entire state through increased economic activity, not a drain on the public purse.
The method of announcement has also been poorly handled. News of the proposed closure was first leaked via social media by a journalist, giving participants less than 24 hours’ notice before an official statement. This has caused significant distress for those who have invested heavily in the sport, many with substantial debts and breeding stock currently in pup, bred in good faith following assurances of industry security just three weeks earlier.
This decision disregards the human element of the sport. Greyhound racing is not just an industry, it is a way of life for many ordinary Australians: teachers, police officers, builders, bricklayers, and countless others who find joy, purpose, and community in their dogs. It is a passion that helps people through hard times, a family hobby that keeps children engaged, active, and away from trouble. Generations have been raised learning the values of discipline, responsibility, and teamwork through caring for greyhounds.
To remove this is to take away more than just a livelihood ,it is to take away a community, a culture, and a shared dream.
We urge the Tasmanian Government to reconsider this decision, to engage in genuine consultation with industry stakeholders, and to recognise the true economic and social value that greyhound racing brings to the state.
The NSW greyhound community will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our Tasmanian friends until this unjust proposal is overturned.
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