Eight years after facing the threat of closure, the greyhound racing industry in New South Wales has emerged as a leader in animal welfare and sustainable practices, according to Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW).
Rob Macaulay, CEO of GRNSW, commended the 12,335 individuals, partners, and supporters who contributed to the industry's success. This group includes participants, volunteers, and employees (both full-time and part-time), with 93.6% of these roles based outside the Sydney Metro area.
The greyhound racing industry in NSW is cherished by thousands and contributes over $655 million to the state’s economy, creating 4,343 jobs, predominantly in regional areas.
Eight years ago, the former NSW Government announced plans to shut down the industry. Today, however, participants in NSW can be proud of several significant achievements over the last financial year (2023-24):
- The first animal racing jurisdiction globally to implement and enforce a Zero Unnecessary Euthanasia policy.
- Record rehoming of 2,806 greyhounds, a significant increase from 415 at the time the industry faced closure. This year also saw the launch of programs to rehome dogs with police officers affected by PTSD in Australia and the USA.
- A reduction in breeding numbers by half compared to a decade ago.
- Enhanced track and safety standards, resulting in some of the safest tracks in Australia.
- The lowest track mortality rate in the sport’s history.
- Record prize money exceeding $55 million per year, up from $26 million during the near-shutdown period.
- Increased female participation and gender equality, with women now making up 55% of GRNSW’s workforce.
- A zero-tolerance policy towards wrongdoing, supporting the permanent exclusion of participants involved in illegal activities or regulatory breaches.
Mr Macaulay expressed immense pride in the sport’s progress since its near-closure. He highlighted that these achievements were made possible by the dedication of participants, partners, and supporters.
Following the McHugh Inquiry and Morris Iemma’s Reform Panel, GRNSW has implemented exceptional animal welfare programs, made challenging reform decisions, and strategically invested in assets to ensure world-class safety standards.
GRNSW’s Greyhounds As Pets rehoming programs are now recognised as the largest and most successful of their kind globally, with 2,806 greyhounds rehomed in the past financial year, a significant rise from 415 when the industry faced closure.
Mr Macaulay acknowledged that there is still much work to be done but affirmed that difficult decisions are being made to ensure the sport's long-term sustainability, with a focus on maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare.