Animal Welfare League Queensland welcomes Tasmania’s decision to end greyhound racing

Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ) has welcomed the Tasmanian Government’s announcement that greyhound racing will be phased out by 2029, calling it a landmark decision for animal welfare and a vital step toward ending a cruel and outdated industry across Australia.

AWLQ applauds Tasmania for following the Australian Capital Territory’s lead in recognising that greyhound racing is incompatible with modern animal welfare standards. The industry has long been associated with serious animal welfare concerns, including high injury rates, the euthanasia of healthy dogs and the use of live baiting.

“This is a win for compassion and common sense,” said Sam Jacklin, CEO at AWLQ. “Tasmania’s decision acknowledges what the evidence has shown for years – that greyhound racing causes significant and avoidable suffering. We urge Queensland and the remaining states to follow suit and commit to ending this industry.”

Each year, AWLQ sees high numbers of ex-racing greyhounds come through their doors in need of significant support, rehabilitation and rehoming. Many arrive with physical injuries, untreated medical conditions and deep-seated anxiety from life in the racing industry. Rehabilitating these dogs requires time, resources and dedicated care before they can transition into loving homes.

“As one of Queensland’s leading animal welfare organisations, we know firsthand the cost of this industry on the dogs themselves,” Ms Jacklin said. “These are gentle, affectionate animals who deserve better than a life defined by racing. We stand ready to support greyhounds affected by any industry closure and to work with governments and community partners to ensure a humane and compassionate transition.”

Tasmania’s commitment to phase out greyhound racing sends a clear message: animal welfare matters, and traditions that rely on animal suffering have no place in today’s society.

–ENDS–

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About Animal Welfare League Queensland
Founded in 1959, AWLQ has become a trusted leader in animal welfare. We provide a safe haven and second chance for more than 10,000 stray and homeless animals annually. To each of these animals we welcome through our doors, we promise never to euthanise a healthy, sociable, or treatable animal in our care. In addition to our shelter work, we are committed to keeping pets and people together by providing lifesaving support and resources to people in need with companion animals. We are known for our grassroots and innovative community-based animal welfare work, including our community vet clinics, the Getting 2 Zero model, the Golden HeartsTM Seniors’ Support Program, and the National Desexing Network.