Greyhound Racing NSW setting records in welfare & sustainability
Eight years after facing the possibility of closure, the greyhound racing industry in New South Wales has transformed into a pioneer in animal welfare and sustainable practices, as reported by Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW).
GRNSW’s CEO, Rob Macaulay, praised the 12,335 individuals, partners, and supporters who have played a role in the industry’s accomplishments.
This number includes roles such as participants, volunteers, and employees (full-time, part-time and casual), with 93.6% of these roles located outside the Sydney Metro area.
The greyhound racing industry in NSW is loved by thousands and makes an economic contribution across the state of over $655 million, including 4,343 jobs, especially in regional communities.
It has been eight years since the former NSW Government announced it was going to shut down the industry. However, today, every participant in NSW has a great deal to be very proud of, including the following achievements over the last financial year (2023-24):
safest tracks in Australia.
“We’re immensely proud of how far our sport has come since almost being shut down,” said Mr Macaulay.
“This has only been possible thanks to our participants, partners and dedicated supporters.”
“Following the McHugh Inquiry and Morris Iemma’s Reform Panel, we have implemented outstanding animal welfare programs, made tough reform decisions and invested strategically in our assets to ensure they are safe and world class.”
“Our Greyhounds As Pets rehoming programs are recognised as the largest, most successful of their type anywhere in the world. GRNSW assisted 2,806 greyhounds transition to pet life in the past financial year, up from 415 when we were nearly shutdown.”
“There is still a lot more to do, but we are making the difficult decisions to secure the longterm sustainability of our sport, particularly focusing on the highest standards of animal welfare.”