RSPCA Queensland statement on Queensland Racing Review

While RSPCA Queensland welcomes the release of the Queensland Racing Review recommendations, it raises several concerns about animal welfare, and we are seeking to meet with the Minister for Sport and Racing Tim Mander MP to discuss them.

We thank the Minister for initiating this important work and are encouraged to see several animal welfare improvements supported, including lifetime traceability through digital passports, expanded rehoming programs, and greater support for retired animals. These are positive steps toward stronger welfare outcomes.

However, given the breadth of the review, we remain concerned that some areas of animal welfare were not fully explored, particularly oversight of racing animals off the track, including breeding, training, and living conditions.

Rehabilitating and rehoming ex-racing animals is a complex and resource intensive process that requires long-term commitment, appropriate funding, and consistent standards of care across the industry.

While RSPCA Queensland provided a written submission to the review, we were not directly consulted during the process. We remain ready to work constructively with government and industry to help close regulatory gaps and ensure consistent welfare standards across every stage of an animal’s life.

We also note that while a significant level of new funding has been allocated to the racing industry, there is no indication that any of this investment will be directed toward rehoming, welfare programs, or enforcement activities that directly improve outcomes for racing animals.