Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) has unveiled a new Greyhound Welfare Scheme designed to enhance welfare initiatives within the industry. The scheme aims to establish a sustainable funding model by retaining a percentage of prize money from races, with flagship events contributing a higher levy. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to elevate welfare programs in New South Wales, with the ultimate goal of improving pet placement opportunities and potentially boosting prize money levels.
GRNSW CEO Steve Griffin emphasized that the new scheme emerged from collaborative efforts at the Industry Future Summit. Scheduled to kick off on August 1, the Greyhound Welfare Scheme is the first major outcome of the Industry Future Blueprint. By dedicating funds to welfare programs like Greyhounds As Pets, the scheme seeks to prioritize the well-being of greyhounds and advance various welfare initiatives across the state.
The introduction of a levy on prize money to support welfare programs mirrors similar initiatives in other racing codes. Notably, the NSW thoroughbred industry established the Equine Welfare Fund in 2022, funded through a deduction from prize money. Queensland’s racing industry also supports welfare programs through similar mechanisms, reflecting a broader trend towards industry-funded welfare initiatives.
Under the new scheme, standard prize money in NSW races will incur a 1% levy, while premier events such as the Million Dollar Chase will contribute 2%. Additionally, redirected funds from specific veterinary services will bolster the Welfare Scheme, ensuring a substantial financial pool to support greyhound welfare programs.
GRNSW’s Homing Assistance Scheme will continue to provide essential support for greyhounds, including desexing procedures and dental care. By streamlining the focus of welfare programs, GRNSW aims to optimize the impact of these initiatives and enhance the overall well-being of greyhounds in the industry.
The Greyhound Welfare Scheme’s funding sources extend beyond race prize money, incorporating revenue from licensing fees and a new lottery initiative. These combined contributions are projected to generate over $1.6 million in the scheme’s first year, with expectations for continued growth in subsequent years. Such financial support is crucial for facilitating pet placement and alleviating financial burdens associated with greyhound welfare.
The implementation of the Greyhound Welfare Scheme comes at a critical juncture when prize money for greyhound racing in Australasia has experienced a decline. The resetting of prize money levels post-COVID has led to a reduction in overall returns for participants, necessitating strategic interventions like the new welfare scheme to sustain the industry’s welfare programs and support greyhound well-being.
As the Greyhound Welfare Scheme unfolds, it represents a significant step towards ensuring the welfare of racing greyhounds in NSW. By establishing a robust funding model and focusing on key welfare initiatives, the industry is poised to elevate standards of care and support for greyhounds, thereby fostering a sustainable and ethical racing environment.
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