In a significant victory for animals, the Tasmanian Government has introduced legislation to phase out greyhound racing, only months after announcing that public funding for the industry will end by 2029. The Greyhound Racing Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 marks a major step toward ending a system that has relied on gambling profits, poor oversight, and the routine exploitation of dogs.
For years, greyhound racing across Australia has been tied to injuries, deaths, over-breeding and even brutal live-baiting practices. In Tasmania, investigations and independent reviews have repeatedly uncovered serious animal welfare breaches and major gaps in tracking greyhounds from birth to death. The government’s decision comes after long-standing community pressure and reflects the growing understanding that the industry cannot meet modern expectations of animal welfare.
Tasmania’s move fits into a wider national and international shift. The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) remains the only Australian jurisdiction with a full ban, showing that ending greyhound racing is both possible and effective. Western Australia is currently holding a parliamentary inquiry into the future of its racing industry, while New South Wales awaits the public release of the Drake Inquiry report and has already seen several tracks close. South Australia is also reviewing its racing regulations amid growing concerns.
Globally, change is accelerating. Aotearoa New Zealand has committed to a national phase-out, and governments in Wales and Scotland have publicly supported ending greyhound racing. Across all these regions, the message is consistent: the industry is incompatible with good welfare standards, and public acceptance is rapidly disappearing.
According to Animals Australia, surveys show that most Australians oppose using taxpayer funds to support greyhound racing, and petitions across multiple states have gathered tens of thousands of signatures. Tasmania’s decision demonstrates what is possible when governments listen to their communities and choose compassion over cruelty.
As Western Australia’s inquiry continues, it now faces a clear choice: join the growing movement toward ending greyhound racing, or remain an outlier supporting an industry built on suffering. Tasmania has shown what real progress looks like.
We must keep speaking up for greyhounds and continue pushing until this cruel industry is ended worldwide.
World Animal News
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