Jane Howlett,Minister for Racing
While the health and safety of Tasmanians remains our Government’s top priority, we are committed to seeing racing resume in the State as soon as it is considered safe to do so.
Today I chaired a series of meetings with key stakeholders across all three racing codes (harness, thoroughbreds and greyhounds) to consider tighter race day controls in order for racing to resume.
I acknowledge the difficulties experienced by the more than 5000 Tasmanians who are involved in the racing industry, and I thank those key stakeholders who contributed today in a very constructive manner.
An extension of the current restriction to racing in Tasmania was included in today’s broader announcement of public health restrictions extending to at least 15 May.
This is in line with agreement from National Cabinet yesterday to maintain current restriction efforts as we seek to stop the spread of coronavirus, both nationally and here in Tasmania.
While the return date will be ultimately determined by public health advice, I will be working with the industry to gain agreement for even tighter controls for race meetings.
While our first priority as a Government is to save lives and stop the spread of coronavirus, today’s announcement will enable all codes to plan for the future.
Industry participants will continue to receive State and Federal assistance based on their specific eligibility during the period that racing is not permitted.
The Government’s aim is to enable racing to return as soon as possible having regard to the current circumstances that the State is experiencing.
