Greyhound racing isn’t just about what happens on the track – it’s also part of a broader industry that contributes significantly to local economies. A 2025 report from Greyhound Australasia Ltd (GALTD) revealed the true financial impact of greyhound racing, highlighting the tax revenue it generates and the benefits that flow into communities.
1. Taxation Revenue
The report shows the industry generated a total of A$731.4 million in taxes in the 2022-23 year, covering both direct and first-round supplier taxes.
After accounting for government funding received by the industry (about A$85.7 million) the net tax contribution stands at A$645.8 million.
So, for every dollar of public funding, the industry contributes many more dollars in tax back to federal, state and local governments.
2. National Economic Impact
Beyond taxes, the report highlights other major dimensions:
- The industry added roughly A$2.45 billion in value to the Australian economy in 2022-23.
- It supported 14,694 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs across the country.
- There are 56 greyhound racing clubs nationwide, which in that year held over 4,200 race meetings and more than 47,500 races.
- Prizemoney across jurisdictions in 2022-23 was approximately A$209 million.
3. Jobs and Local Businesses
With 56 clubs operating nationally, greyhound racing is a sizable industry. Each club involves trainers, support staff, veterinarians, event services, infrastructure and more. The 14,694 FTE jobs figure doesn’t include part-time or casual roles, meaning the total employment footprint is larger. The fact that there were over 47,500 races in a year also points to highly active participation and ongoing operational demands.
4. State-by-State Highlights
The below jurisdictional breakdowns from the report highlight the widespread fiscal contribution across the country:
- New South Wales: Total tax generated A$234.7 m; net contribution A$221.3m.
- Victoria: Total tax A$216.3 m; net contribution A$198.3m.
- Queensland: Total tax A$136.4 m; net contribution A$97.9m.
- Western Australia: Total tax A$62.8 m; net contribution A$53.2m.
- South Australia: Total tax A$44.5 m; net contribution A$43.8m.
- Tasmania: Total tax A$15.8 m; net contribution A$10.4m.
- Northern Territory: Total tax A$14.6 m (net same).
- Australian Capital Territory: Total tax A$6.2m (net same).
Taxation revenue and racing-related income often find their way back into communities through government programs, community grants, and regional investment. This reinforces that the industry is not just entertainment but an active contributor to local development.
Straight Up Summary
Greyhound racing is not just a niche sport – it’s a substantial economic contributor. With nearly A$2.45 billion in economic value, over 14,600 full-time jobs, and a net tax contribution of A$645.8 million, the 2022-23 report from Greyhounds Australasia demonstrates that the industry supports governments, communities and local economies – not just on the racetrack but beyond it.