An independent inquiry into the greyhound racing industry has raised serious concerns regarding animal welfare, leading to potential closure recommendations. The investigation, spearheaded by **Lea Drake** and commissioned by the **New South Wales (NSW) Government**, was prompted by whistleblower allegations and culminated in a **722-page report** released on **31 July 2024**.
The report highlights that not a single racing track in NSW meets the minimum standards established in 2020, despite many facilities undergoing extensive renovations during that period. The inquiry identified significant issues, including “deficiencies in procurement and recruitment practices, financial mismanagement, wasteful expenditure, and a poor workplace culture.”
In response to these findings, the report recommends that the entire industry be shut down by the end of the year unless new standards are implemented. Among its key suggestions is a change to the Operating Licence, which would mandate **Greyhound Racing NSW** to appoint a full-time chief veterinarian at a senior management level. Additional recommendations include enhancing the reporting process to the **Greyhound Welfare Integrity Commission** regarding dog fatalities from unknown causes and increasing oversight of rehoming initiatives.
**David Harris**, the Minister for Racing and Gaming, announced that officials would be given **18 months** to implement new regulations aimed at ensuring the industry operates with the highest standards of governance, animal welfare, and integrity. This timeframe aims to make the industry “competitive, responsible, and sustainable.”
**Steve Griffin**, CEO of Greyhound Racing NSW, expressed support for the government’s collaboration with the industry to establish minimum track standards. However, he contested some findings of the report, asserting, “We’re probably the most regulated sport in Australia.”
The extensive inquiry received over **1,600 public submissions** and examined approximately **80,000 documents** during **31 days of hearings**. The findings coincided with the government’s announcement regarding the closure of the iconic **Wentworth Park** racetrack in central Sydney, which is set to be redeveloped for housing and green space.
Federal Greens Senator **Mehreen Faruqi** hailed the closure as a significant victory for animal rights, stating it marks “the beginning of the end of greyhound racing” in NSW. In contrast, Griffin expressed surprise at the timeline for the racetrack’s redevelopment, claiming it could have severe financial repercussions for the greyhound racing sector.
As the industry grapples with these challenges, the outcome of the inquiry and the government’s response will be crucial in determining the future of greyhound racing in New South Wales.
