Greyhound Welfare & Integrity Commission commences

On 1 July 2018 the Greyhound Welfare & Integrity Commission commenced its management of the welfare and regulatory functions for greyhound racing in NSW.

The key objective of the Commission is to regulate the industry, target wrongdoing and enforce the highest greyhound welfare standards.

“Much effort has been made to ensure highly capable and experienced people are recruited, and solid processes and business systems developed to ensure we deliver on the recommendations made for this industry,” Alan Brown, Chief Commissioner said.

Industry participants doing the right thing should not be affected by the changes. A key focus of the Commission will be on identifying and eliminating wrongdoing from the greyhound racing industry in NSW, to ensure community support and industry longevity.

“Separating the regulatory and commercial functions of the industry will improve governance, transparency and accountability, and ensure a renewed and much needed focus on greyhound welfare moving forward,” said Mr Brown.

The changes should not disrupt race meetings as the Commission has worked closely with Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) to ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities.

On 1 July 2018 all active GRNSW registrations of greyhounds, industry participants and trial tracks were ‘rolled over’ to the Commission free of charge for a 12 month period. Only new registrations will be charged registration fees, if applicable, during this period.

Over the next 12 months, the Commission will focus on strengthening the integrity of the industry, work to ensure the highest greyhound welfare standards are enforced, and review existing rules and policies to ensure the industry can operate in line with best practice approaches.

“To ensure the best outcome for the industry, the Commission will consult with participants, animal welfare groups and other stakeholders when reviewing existing, or developing any new, policies,” Mr Brown said.

For more information please visit the Greyhound Welfare & Integrity Commission’s website www.gwic.nsw.gov.au or call the Customer Service Hotline 1800 951 755.