By Parker McKenzie
Statistics gathered by the RSPCA indicate around 76 per cent of Victorians support the introduction of mandatory standards for horse racing, with support even higher within suburbs like Croydon and Ringwood.
The RSPCA is calling for political parties to support the introduction of “mandatory standards that would require owners and trainers to provide appropriate nutrition, socialisation, training and rehoming options as well as mandatory levels of training for staff,” as a part of its five-point plan.
In response, Racing Victoria said it is aligned with RSPCA “in that the welfare of thoroughbred racehorses is a non-negotiable” for the sport and pointed to the “robust framework in place to protect the welfare” of racehorses through the Australian Rules of Racing already in place within the Victorian thoroughbred racing industry.
“The Australian Rules of Racing are enforced stringently by RV, including, where appropriate, in association with RSPCA Victoria, and on the rare occasions that rules relating to equine welfare are transgressed, significant penalties are sought and administered,” Racing Victoria said.
“More broadly, RV has introduced a range of welfare programs and initiatives to maximise the wellbeing of racehorses at every stage of their lives.”
Currently, 2 per cent of all prize money from races held in Victoria is funnelled into equine welfare. In October 2019, Racing Victoria announced a $25 million, three-year plan focusing on post-racing wellbeing. This included a state-wide re-homing program, advanced tracking of thoroughbreds and an equine welfare task force.
“We will continue to work with the RSPCA to ensure our rules and programs are fit for purpose and with horse welfare at the centre of what we do.” Racing Victoria said
