As commercial greyhound racing ends in New Zealand, the Tasmanian Government has announced progress on its State voluntary exit scheme.
Minister for Racing, Roger Jaensch, said 13 greyhound racing participants had expressed interest in accessing the Government’s voluntary exit scheme.
“This voluntary exit scheme will provide financial assistance and practical support to those wishing to leave the industry by 31 December 2026,” Minister Jaensch said.
“The Government remains committed to the phase-out of greyhound racing by 30 June 2029.
“Our commitment is to ensure the transition is responsible and orderly, with a focus on both participant and animal welfare.”
Liberal Member for Rosevears, Jo Palmer, said the Government is delivering the phase-out of greyhound racing in a careful and measured way.
“Sadly, we have continued to see injuries and on-track deaths of greyhounds in Tasmania,” Ms Palmer said.
“The end of greyhound racing in New Zealand reaffirms that the industry no longer meets community expectations across the world.”
Tasmanian Racing Integrity Commissioner, Sean Carroll, said the response to the voluntary exit scheme to date demonstrated participants were engaging with the process.
“Since Expressions of Interest opened, my office has received 13 submissions from participants seeking further information or wishing to be considered under the proposed voluntary exit scheme,” Mr Carroll said.
“My office continues to consult directly with participants and stakeholders to understand individual circumstances and inform the development of the scheme.
“These discussions are confidential and are an important part of ensuring the proposed arrangements are practical, equitable and appropriately targeted.”
The Commissioner is preparing an interim report on the proposed transitional arrangements for participants who wish to voluntarily exit the industry by 31 December 2026.
