The independent regulation of greyhound racing is essential to ensuring basic animal welfare conditions are met and monitored. Many states do not have independent regulators and are instead managed by state-supported, commercial racing bodies. Where this is the case, accountability is low and the treatment, handling and breeding of racing animals goes largely unchecked.
Here’s how each Australian State and Territory handles greyhound racing regulation.
Regulation in New South Wales
The NSW Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission (GWIC) is responsible for controlling and regulating greyhound racing in NSW.
Regulation in Victoria
There is no independent regulator in Victoria. Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) is the statutory body responsible for promoting and controlling the sport of greyhound racing in Victoria and is also the regulator.
Regulation in Western Australia
There is no independent regulator for greyhound racing in Western Australia. The commercial operator and the regulator is Racing and Wagering WA.
Regulation in South Australia
There is no independent regulator in South Australia. The Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing oversees the racing industry.
Regulation in Tasmania
Greyhound racing is regulated in Tasmania by the Office of Racing Integrity, who oversee thoroughbred, harness and greyhound racing codes.
Regulation in Queensland
Greyhound racing in Queensland is regulated by the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission. Their role is to monitor racing and animal welfare.
Regulation in Northern Territory
There is no independent regulator in the NT. Greyhound racing in the NT is regulated by Licensing NT on behalf of the NT Racing Commission.