- Published:
- Friday 10 April 2015
The Andrews Labor Government will move to modernise governance for Harness Racing Victoria (HRV), following a comprehensive independent audit of the industry by Dale Monteith.
In his audit report, Mr Monteith has made 18 recommendations to the Government and HRV, which identify the need for:
- Improved governance structures, including a new Board appointments process and a better balance of skills and expertise among Board members
- Bolstered integrity services to address a number of key deficiencies in the area as identified in the audit
- Strategic and collaborative work with stakeholders on the industry’s financial situation, including the settlement of debts and liabilities and improved income streams
- A ten year strategic infrastructure and racing plan
- Moves to reduce administrative duplication and expand the scope of HRV’s shared services model
The Government will amend the Racing Act 1958 to ensure a skills-based Board in line with modern governance practice, establishing an appointments panel to assist the Minister for Racing to identify appropriate candidates.
The Government will also establish a new advisory body within HRV to undertake collaborative consultation with industry participants on all racing matters.
Mr Monteith has recommended that the Government consider the removal of integrity services from HRV and the establishment of a separate integrity body for harness racing, supported by additional funding.
The Government recognises the need for Victorian racing to have an independent and effective integrity regime that avoids any potential conflict of interest.
Before determining a path forward on integrity structures that may affect all three racing codes, the Government will await the findings of Racing Integrity Commissioner Sal Perna’s investigation into greyhound racing and Racing Victoria’s investigation into cobalt use.
The full audit report can be found here:
Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing, Martin Pakula
“The Government will accept the recommendations put to us by Mr Monteith and work with the current Board to put strategies in place on priority areas for the industry.”
“Like all codes, Harness Racing Victoria needs a modern governance structure with strong leadership and communication to reunite the industry and reinvigorate its product.”
“I thank Mr Monteith for his efforts in undertaking extensive stakeholder consultation and putting detailed and considered recommendations to government.”