- Published:
- Tuesday 8 December 2015
Minister for Racing Martin Pakula today announced new laws to increase the focus on animal welfare in the greyhound industry.
Speaking in Parliament today, the Minister said the changes will provide stronger powers and increased penalties for baiting, blooding and luring greyhounds.
The Racing and Other Acts Amendment (Greyhound Racing and Welfare Reform) Bill also expands the functions of the Racing Integrity Commissioner to conduct animal welfare audits and strengthens powers of inspection within the industry.
Under new laws, the Board of Greyhound Racing Victoria has a statutory responsibility to promote and improve animal welfare and at least one member of the Board must have experience in animal welfare or ethics.
A new mandatory greyhound code of practice will provide strict guidelines on keeping industry greyhounds in Victoria.
These changes provide a more consistent approach to the care and management of greyhounds in the racing industry, providing clarity for both the industry and the community.
The new laws implement 10 of the recommendations made by the Chief Veterinary Officer and the Racing Integrity Commissioner in their reports on live baiting in the greyhound industry.
Quotes attributable to Attorney General Martin Pakula
“Animal welfare is the top priority and this bill shows how serious we are about improving animal welfare within Victoria’s greyhound racing industry.”
“These laws implement a number of key recommendations that will improve animal welfare, including stronger powers and increased penalties for baiting, blooding and luring.”
“The Andrews Labor Government will continue to work with Greyhound Racing Victoria to ensure the integrity of the sport and the industry.”