GRV confirms staff reduction changes yet to be implemented
Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) is currently grappling with a decline in wagering turnover, leading the organisation to propose a revised staff structure as part of cost-saving efforts.
Stuart Laing, the CEO of GRV, disclosed that greyhound betting turnover has dropped by 15% so far this year, resulting in a GRV revenue decrease of approximately 10 to 15%.
This notable downturn has prompted adjustments to the racing schedule, prize money distribution, and GRV internal expenses.
Victorian greyhound racing industry participant's had been extremely vocal about burgeoning GRV administration and marketing costs when participants were asked to accept fewer races and less prizemoney as a result of the decreasing industry (GRV) revenue.
To tackle these challenges GRV presented a restructuring proposal to its employees on Thursday, April 4, 2024, for discussion and feedback within the framework of their existing GRV enterprise agreement arrangements.
Despite reports in other greyhound publications, Laing stressed that no specific cuts or reductions were set in stone and that GRV “staff need to consider this (the proposal) and provide feedback as part of our (GRV) Enterprise Agreement arrangements.”
He emphasised that the proposal is still at a stage with no decisions yet made.
“I won't be able to comment further on the proposal itself,” Laing said.
Laing took the opportunity to stress the need for consideration and respect toward his GRV staff throughout this process, and asked that participant's not speculate on the proposal's outcome.
“I ask that people in the industry be considerate of our staff and the impact on them.
“Remember, this is still just a change proposal; nothing has been decided or implemented yet.
I want people to respect the process, respect the people, and understand that we don't want rumours or assumptions spread about what might be happening,” Laing said.