MEDIA RELEASE
Animal Welfare League Queensland Backs Calls to Phase Out Greyhound Racing in Tasmania
- Animal Welfare League Queensland urges Tasmanian Legislative Council to support legislation to phase out greyhound racing.
- Long-standing animal welfare concerns and declining public participation raise questions about the industry’s future.
- Community members encouraged to stay informed and support greyhound welfare through the “You Are Their Voice” campaign.
Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ) is urging members of the Tasmanian Legislative Council to support legislation currently before Parliament that would phase out greyhound racing in the state, describing it as an important step forward for animal welfare and responsible public policy.
The proposed legislation would provide a structured pathway for the industry to wind down while ensuring the welfare and rehoming of greyhounds during the transition.
AWLQ CEO Sam Jacklin said the legislation represented a critical opportunity for parliamentary leadership on an issue that has raised long-standing animal welfare concerns across Australia.
“Greyhound racing has been associated with serious welfare issues for many years, including injury risks, breeding surplus dogs, and the ongoing burden placed on rescue organisations to rehabilitate and rehome retired racing animals,” Ms Jacklin said.
“While we acknowledge that many individuals involved in the industry have longstanding ties to it, the welfare concerns surrounding greyhound racing are well documented and continue to generate significant community concern.”
AWLQ also pointed to recent economic analysis highlighting broader questions about the sustainability of the industry.
A report by economist Saul Eslake found that greyhound racing in Tasmania receives approximately $7.5 million in annual taxpayer funding, more per capita than any other Australian jurisdiction, despite declining public participation.
The report also found that only one per cent of Tasmanians attend greyhound racing events, while just 11 per cent of the community express support for the industry.
“At a time when governments are under increasing pressure to ensure public funding is spent responsibly, it is appropriate to consider whether continued investment in this industry aligns with community expectations,” Ms Jacklin said.
AWLQ says a legislated phase-out would allow for a managed transition that provides certainty for industry participants while ensuring the welfare of greyhounds remains the priority.
“With careful planning, a phase-out can support both the people involved in the industry and the many greyhounds who will need care, rehabilitation and loving homes,” Ms Jacklin said.
“As one of Australia’s leading animal welfare organisations, we see firsthand the challenges faced by ex-racing greyhounds when they leave the industry. Many require significant veterinary care, behavioural support and time before they are ready to transition into family homes.”
AWLQ and its supporters have called on members of the Tasmanian Legislative Council, including Rosemary Armitage, to support passage of the bill.
“A legislated phase-out provides certainty, compassion and a clear pathway forward for animal welfare,” Ms Jacklin said.
“Parliament now has an opportunity to demonstrate leadership on an issue that has attracted national and international scrutiny.”
Supporters who wish to stay informed or take action can learn more through RSPCA Tasmania’s “You Are Their Voice” campaign. The initiative provides updates and information on how the community can advocate for stronger protections for greyhounds. Visit https://www.youaretheirvoice.org.au/ to learn more.
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About Animal Welfare League Queensland
Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ) has supported animals in need since 1959. Through community programs, rehoming centres and veterinary services, AWLQ provides care and a second chance for thousands of animals each year. As a charity, AWLQ relies on community support to continue its vital work across Queensland. Visit http://www.awlqld.com.au
