- Queensland racing generated more than $2.5 billion in value added contribution to the State’s economy in 2024–25.
- The industry supports almost 14,000 full-time jobs and involves 48,682 participants statewide.
- Racing’s economic contribution has more than doubled since 2015–16.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering for the State’s racing industry, after a decade of decline under Labor.
New independent data has shown Queensland’s racing industry generated more than $2.5 billion in value added contribution to the State’s economy in 2024-25, as the Crisafulli Government continues delivering for the racing industry.
The latest Size and Scope Report found the industry’s contribution increased by almost $50 million compared with 2023-24.
Since 2015-16, racing’s total value-added contribution has grown by 104 per cent, while full-time employment has risen by 47 per cent – from 9,546 to 13,994 jobs.
More than 750,000 patrons attended Queensland race meetings in 2024-25, with approximately 75 per cent of attendances recorded at racecourses outside Brisbane.
The report found 48,682 people are involved in Queensland racing, including employees, trainers, breeders, owners, jockeys, drivers, stable hands and volunteers.
The thoroughbred code contributed $1.93 billion, up 2 per cent from 2023–24, while greyhound racing contributed $348.4 million, an increase of 6 per cent. Harness racing contributed $222.9 million.
During Labor’s decade of decline, Queensland racing was left without a clear roadmap for the future. In stark contrast, the Crisafulli Government has a plan and is delivering through The Next Lap: A plan for the future of Queensland racing.
It’s just one way the Crisafulli Government is delivering better services through a stronger economy, righta cross the State.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander reaffirmed the racing industry’s importance to the state from both an economic and employment standpoint.
“Racing Queensland’s FY25 Size and Scope Report once again shines a light on the sheer size and strength of our racing industry across the State,” Minister Mander said.
“Supporting 14,000 full-time jobs whilst contributing more than $2.5 billion in annual contribution to the State’s economy underpins the vital importance of the racing industry statewide and it’s why we’re implementing reforms from The Next Lap: A plan for the future of Queensland racing.
“The Crisafulli Government remains incredibly proud and steadfast in its support for racing, hosting close to 280 races across 30 meetings a week, while supporting almost 50,000 participants from Goondiwindi to Cooktown and everywhere in between across the three codes.”
Racing Queensland Chair Matt McGrath said the latest economic data was a testament to the industry’s size and scale across the State.
“Throughout my short time in this position, I have been privileged to witness firsthand the impact this industry has on so many people in Queensland,” Mr McGrath said.
“This latest report highlights the importance of racing from both an economic and social perspective, especially in our regions where more than half of the industry’s economic contribution is realised.
“It speaks to the unbelievable work from those at the coalface of the sport, and their passion and commitment that directly contributes to the growth of racing across each of the three codes.
“There are always industry challenges, and our role is to ensure we build a sustainable model for the long term which will continue to maintain an ever-increasing contribution to the State of Queensland.”
Click here to see a full copy of the Size and Scope Report.
Click here to view a summary of the Size and Scope Report.
