Jane Howlett,Minister for Racing
The Tasmanian Liberal Government continues to be a strong supporter and advocate for the racing industry.
The industry is critical for the State, generating more than $103 million a year in economic activity, importantly in our rural and regional areas.
In an important boost for the industry, Tasracing has finalised the funding allocation for the three racing codes after consultation with code industry groups.
The Tasracing Board has agreed to increase code funding by $2.26 million, or 8 per cent.
As part of this increase, stakes will increase for the harness code by 6 per cent, 7.1 per cent for thoroughbreds and 7.7 per cent for the greyhound code.
In addition to the stakes increases agreed to, thoroughbred rider fees will increase by 6 per cent while harness driver fees will increase by 18 per cent.
The Tasbred Breeding Incentive bonus scheme for thoroughbreds and standardbreds will also benefit from increases that are designed to further improve returns for Tasmanian-bred horses and owners who have invested in the industry in Tasmania.
More than 5,500 Tasmanians are either employed in the industry or are direct participants. Importantly, the State Government’s support for the industry gives participants the confidence to continue investing in it.
