Racing

​Strategic objective: A sustainable racing industry in Queensland

We are supporting the viability and sustainability of the racing industry for the prosperity of Queensland communities, industry and regions.

The Office of Racing oversees the administration of the Racing Act 2002 (Qld), provides policy support on racing matters to the Minister for Racing and administers funding to support the industry through Racing Queensland.

Betting tax​

Funding certainty for the long-term sustainability of Queensland’s racing industry is a top priority, as racing is an important part of many Queensland communities.

Changes to the Betting Tax Act 2018 (Qld) took effect on 1 December 2022 to deliver a consolidated, ongoing revenue stream for the industry. These changes mean after wagering service providers pay tax on wagering by Queenslanders, 80% of the state’s betting tax revenue is then returned to the industry to support race clubs, facilities upgrades, prize money increases and animal care.

Support for country racing

Changes to the Racing Act 2002 (Qld) will ensure country thoroughbred racing receives a funding boost with a prescribed minimum amount of funding each year from the betting tax distribution. This acknowledges the significant economic and social contribution racing makes to regional and rural areas. Additionally, the amendments ensure country racing is appropriately represented in the thoroughbred racing calendar.

From 1 December 2022, the new funding model for Queensland’s racing industry includes a minimum of $20 million per annum, to be indexed annually, to support country racing, boosting total prize money and helping to maintain country racing tracks and facilities.

Racing Infrastructure Fund​

The Racing Infrastructure Fund supports priority racing infrastructure projects that contribute to the industry’s growth and sustainability and assist the industry to generate commercial income from infrastructure. The fund also contributes to improved animal welfare and participant health and safety outcomes and creates enduring community benefits.

In 2022–23, the fund provided support to projects at the Gold Coast Turf Club and the Greater Brisbane Greyhound Centre (The Q). In addition, funding was approved for the purchase of land for the proposed new Queensland Harness Centre at Norwell.

Service area performance

Objective: Administer the Racing Act 2002 (Qld) and manage programs that support a viable, prosperous racing industry in Queensland.

Description: The service area:

• provides policy advice to government on the administration of the Racing Act 2002 (Qld) and matters relevant to the commercial operation and sustainability of the racing industry
• administers programs related to the provision of Queensland Government funding to the racing industry.

Racing performance m​eas​​ures​

Notes:

1. This service stand​ard has been discontinued following the introduction of new funding arrangements from 1 December 2022 and the conclusion of the Country Racing Program. The 2022–23 actual reflects the result to the end of the December and is below the 2022–23 Target/Estimate principally due to weather causing race meeting cancellations.