Tasmania to End Greyhound Racing Funding by 2029

The Tasmanian government will phase out public funding for greyhound racing by June 2029, effectively ending the sport in the state. Premier Jeremy Rockliff announced the decision after the euthanasia of champion greyhound Raider’s Guide, citing animal welfare concerns and community values. The policy is intended to help transition industry participants and rehome affected dogs. State spending on greyhound racing is projected at $7.5 million for 2024-25, which is more than double the national average. The move aligns Tasmania with similar bans in the ACT and New Zealand and coincides with the expiry of a long-standing funding deed. The decision also aims to secure crossbench support for Rockliff’s minority Liberal government after a hung parliament.