Tasmania to Phase Out Greyhound Racing by 2029

Tasmania is set to phase out Greyhound Racing from 30 June 2029, in a move that comes just three weeks after Premier Jeremy Rockliff pledged support for the industry’s “longevity and sustainability”.

The decision aligns with the expiry of the sport’s funding agreement. It also follows a state election that left Rockliff’s Liberal government without a parliamentary majority. Industry observers believe the phase-out is part of negotiations to secure crossbench support and avoid a no-confidence motion.

Economic and Industry Impact

Greyhound racing contributes AUD 208 million to Tasmania’s economy each year. More than 6,400 people are involved across the state’s three racing codes. The government’s decision gives the industry five years to wind down operations.

On 17 July, Rockliff wrote a letter to the Northwest Greyhound Club stating his commitment to the industry’s sustainability and that he was already working on a new funding deed to provide certainty. The swift policy reversal has drawn criticism. Greyhounds Australasia urged the government to reconsider, saying the closure ignores recent gains in safety and welfare standards.

Transition and Future Opportunities

Tasracing, the state-owned racing authority, will work with participants from greyhound, harness, and thoroughbred racing. A parliamentary committee will oversee the transition and provide support for affected people.

With thoroughbred and harness racing unaffected, stakeholders are watching to see if the decision signals future reviews of other publicly supported racing codes.

The phase-out could leave gaps in Tasmania’s sporting and entertainment calendar. This shift may create opportunities for alternative events or industries to step in as greyhound racing winds down.

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