Tasmania Leads the Way in Ending Greyhound Racing

Tasmania has taken a bold and humane step—announcing a full phase-out of greyhound racing by 30 June 2029, aligning with the conclusion of its current funding deal and marking a decisive shift toward better animal welfare policies.

What’s Behind the Decision?

Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff called the move a response to evolving public sentiment around ethical treatment of animals. He emphasised the need for an “orderly exit” from the sport while still supporting regional communities affected by the change.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions. While animal welfare groups like RSPCA Tasmania have welcomed the outcome, calling it long overdue, trainers and breeders have voiced their anger, saying they were blindsided by the sudden announcement and viewing the policy as a politically motivated “scapegoat” for the government’s power struggles. A parliamentary committee will oversee the transition, focusing also on the rehoming of approximately 828 greyhounds currently in training.

Where Other Australian Jurisdictions Stand

Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has already outlawed greyhound racing, imposing a ban in 2018.

New South Wales (NSW) governs racing through the Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission (GWIC), a taxpayer-funded regulator created after a major animal welfare scandal. Greyhound Racing NSW still handles both commercial promotion and day-to-day regulation.

Victoria lacks an independent regulator; Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) serves both promotional and regulatory functions. Despite a recent live baiting scandal sparking demands for an inquiry, the government remains committed to supporting the sport. An independent Parliamentary Budget Office analysis suggests Victoria could save nearly $452 million over the next decade by phasing out the industry, fueling growing debate.

Queensland operates under the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission, which oversees both race operations and welfare concerns.

South Australia (SA) places greyhound racing under the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing—without independent oversight.

Western Australia (WA) combines regulatory and operational roles in Racing and Wagering WA.

Northern Territory (NT) similarly blurs lines, with Licensing NT acting on behalf of the NT Racing Commission and administering racing rather than supervising it independently.

Why Tasmania’s Step Matters

Tasmania’s government funds greyhound racing more generously than any other state, at around $12.70 per person, nearly double the national average. Yet despite increased spending, the industry’s returns are shrinking: race starters, attendance, wagering, and jobs per dollar have all declined significantly over the past decade.

By ending funding, Tasmania not only signals a broader national shift against animal exploitation for profit but also demonstrates that public resources may be better allocated elsewhere. As financial waste shrinks and public sentiment grows less tolerant, pressure mounts on other jurisdictions to follow suit.

As greyhound racing fades, Australia is steering toward a future where entertainment doesn’t come at the expense of animal welfare and taxpayer dollars.