The Tasmanian Government is progressing with its commitment to phase out greyhound racing in Tasmania with the draft Greyhound Racing Legislation (Phasing Out Reform) Bill 2025.
The draft Bill will phase out greyhound racing in Tasmania through a staged and considered approach with the sport to end in June 2029.
If passed, several reforms will be implemented from 1 January 2026, including:
- An immediate ban on breeding greyhounds for racing.
- Additional requirements for racing interstate greyhounds in Tasmania.
- A prohibition on euthanasia of racing greyhounds for non-medical reasons.
The draft Bill was tabled in Parliament on 6 November 2025 and passed the House of Assembly on 4 December 2025.
The Information Sheet provides details about each of the phase out steps. It shows how the legislation supports changes throughout the transition period, and beyond the transition period:
Greyhound Racing Legislation - Information Sheet (PDF 303Kb)
A text version of the Information Sheet is also available.
Frequently Asked Questions
The frequently asked questions below on the draft greyhound racing legislation provide information on the phase-out timeline, animal welfare of racing greyhounds and next steps.
What are the steps that need to be undertaken to phase out greyhound racing in Tasmania?
The draft Greyhound Racing Legislation (Phasing Out Reform) Bill 2025 outlines the amendments the Animal Welfare Act 1993, the Dog Control Act 2000 and the Racing Regulation and Integrity Act 2024 to phase out greyhound racing in Tasmania. The Tasmanian Racing Integrity Commissioner (TasRIC) has been tasked to plan and oversee the transition to ensure a humane and structured exit of the sport.
If the legislation is being introduced this year, why will it take until 2029 for greyhound racing to be banned?
The transition period until 2029 allows time for a responsible and orderly transition. This ensures the welfare of greyhounds remains a priority and gives industry participants, including trainers and breeders, time to adjust and plan for the future.
What is the role of the Tasmanian Racing Integrity Commissioner in implementation of the new legislation and the transition period?
The Tasmanian Racing Integrity Commissioner will oversee the Greyhound Racing Transition Working Group which will support the development of a comprehensive plan to deliver all operational, animal welfare and integrity components of this transition. The Working Group will ensure a smooth transition and assist the Commissioner in the process. The first meeting of the group was held on 1 October 2025.
What will happen to the greyhounds currently in the racing system?
The Tasmanian Racing Integrity Commissioner, supported by the Greyhound Racing Transition Working Group, will work with rehoming organisations to ensure all greyhounds are safely transitioned into homes or appropriate care. A dedicated rehoming strategy will be developed.
What safeguards will be in place to prevent euthanasia or neglect during the transition?
The Government has committed to ensuring that no healthy greyhound is euthanised due to the phase-out. This is enforced through the proposed Bill. A rehoming strategy will also be developed as part of the transition plan being developed by the Tasmanian Racing Integrity Commissioner.
Can racing greyhounds be brought into the State during the transition period?
During the transition period, greyhounds cannot be brought into Tasmania for racing purposes without prior approval from Tasracing. This measure supports a controlled and responsible phase-out of greyhound racing in the State.
Can racing greyhounds be bred during the transition period?
No, greyhounds cannot be bred for the purpose of racing during the transition period.
Can greyhound breeders breed dogs as domestic pets?
Yes, greyhounds can be bred for domestic pets.