The government will implement all but one of the 122 recommendations by the Greyhound Industry Reform Panel.
The government will implement the recommended new greyhound industry structure, with separate commercial and regulatory functions, by establishing an independent Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission.
The Panel’s other key recommendations to be implemented include:
- an enforceable code of practice for greyhound welfare
- CCTV cameras at all public and certain private tracks
- whole-of-life registration and tracking of greyhounds
- tougher penalties for animal welfare abuses, including for live baiting
- an accreditation scheme for industry participants
- strict controls on euthanasia.
Legislation to repeal the greyhound ban and implement the reforms will be introduced into Parliament today.
The government will invest $41 million over the next five years to implement the recommendations.
$11 million will go towards the establishment of the integrity commission and $30 million to improve animal welfare standards that lower the risk of injury.
Minister for Racing Paul Toole said the reforms would focus on stronger penalties and lifetime bans for those who do the wrong thing, while developing a sustainable and ethical industry.
“The reforms give the greyhound industry very clear direction about the standards expected from now on,” Mr Toole said.
“The government is absolutely committed to a sustainable future for the greyhound industry and these reforms will help ensure confidence and integrity is restored.”
A statutory review of the new legislation will take place after three years.