01 December 2007

AGREEMENT REACHED ON RACING NSW REFORMS

A landmark meeting in Sydney has reached agreement on sweeping reforms to racing in NSW. NSW Racing Minister Graham West met with NSW racing industry representatives at Parliament House where agreement was reached on the Iemma Government's package of reforms for the racing industry.

In the most critical development West said the proposed Racing Industry Consultation Group would not have decision-making powers over the yet to be announced independent Racing NSW board.

“ We have carried out extensive consultation with the racing industry since the Iemma Government's response to the Ken Brown Review of Racing was announced in August,” West said.

“ The racing industry has made it clear that they want strong and unencumbered leadership and I have listened to the racing industry.

“ The RICG will only act as a formal industry consultation and advisory body to the independent Board of Racing NSW."

West confirmed that the RICG will be made up of nine representatives nominated by the Australian Jockey Club, Sydney Turf Club, provincial and country clubs, Unions NSW as well as owners, breeders, trainers and jockeys.

The chairs or elected officials of these bodies will also select the five-member independent Board of Racing NSW from a .

“ Today is a landmark day for racing in NSW,” West said. “The racing industry has reached agreement on a way forward.

“ Racing now has the opportunity to move forward with certainty.”

The necessary amendments to the Thoroughbred Racing Act 1996 will be introduced into Parliament early next year.

“ The package of reforms will ensure the racing industry has strong leadership and a sound regulatory framework to protect its ongoing viability and integrity,” West said.

The challenge for West and RICG will be to establish a Racing NSW board that will be accepted as independent of racing and breeding industry influences and connections.