The South Australian Government has given the greyhound racing industry two years to improve its standards, or the sport will be banned.
Key points:
- South Australia’s greyhound racing industry will be banned if it doesn’t improve its standards
- The state government will establish an independent inspector for greyhound racing reforms
- It follows an inquiry after a report by the ABC revealed abuse in the industry
It is one of the recommendations of an inquiry into the industry that was launched following revelations by the ABC of dogs being abused.
“This government wants to see the greyhound racing industry survive in South Australia, but only if it cleans up its act,” Premier Peter Malinauskas said.
“This report makes plainly clear that there is work that needs to be done.”
The independent review has handed down 57 recommendations, with an additional 29 from Greyhound Racing SA, the RSPCA and the Animal Justice Party.
That includes a recommendation to establish an independent inspector for greyhound racing reform, who will make sure the recommendations are implemented.
After two years, that inspector will make a recommendation to the government about whether the industry should continue.
“It makes clear that this industry has two years, it has two years to clean itself up. Otherwise it faces the prospect of no longer being able to enjoy the social licence and the government support that is required for it to be able to operate,” Mr Malinauskas said.
“That’s a strong recommendation and one that the government accepts.”