Racing
Queensland's racing industry is a significant contributor to the state's economy and a significant employer of Queenslanders. It also plays an important role in the social fabric of the state, particularly in rural and regional areas.
More than $150 million is distributed annually to the industry by way of prize money across 3 racing codes:
- thoroughbred
- harness
- greyhound.
Racing legislation
The racing industry in Queensland is administered under 2 acts, the Racing Act 2002 and the Racing Integrity Act 2016. The Racing Act is administered by the Department of Education, and the Racing Integrity Act by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
The Racing Act provides for the management, operation, development and promotion of the racing industry in Queensland. The Act establishes the Racing Queensland Board as the control body for the 3 racing codes listed above.
The Racing Act also provides a framework for eligible corporations to apply for approval as control bodies for proposed new codes of racing.
The Racing Integrity Act was introduced in 2016 to safeguard the welfare of racing animals, ensure the integrity of persons involved in the racing industry and to manage issues relating to betting and sporting contingencies.
Its introduction separated the racing industry's integrity and animal welfare functions from its commercial operations and established the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission in July 2016.
Getting involved in the racing industry
There are several ways individuals can become involved in the racing industry. For further information, contact:
- Queensland Racing Integrity Commission for licensing and registrations
- Racing Queensland for training courses and qualifications
- Racing Australia for current employment opportunities within the racing industry.