The greyhound racing industry in Australia today looks very different from what it did even a decade ago. Since 2015, there has been a major shift in culture, regulation, and investment, with greyhound welfare placed firmly at the centre of the sport.
1. Whole-of-Life Responsibility
Greyhounds are now tracked from birth to retirement through microchipping and registration systems. This ensures every dog is accounted for throughout their life, and that the industry is responsible for their welfare even after their racing career is over.
2. Massive Investment in Track Safety
Millions of dollars have been invested nationally into safer track design, surface technology, and preparation standards. Research into greyhound biomechanics and racing dynamics has guided these upgrades. The result? Significant reductions in serious injuries and safer racing conditions than ever before.
3. Mandatory Veterinary Oversight
Greyhounds must undergo veterinary checks before and after every race. Any sign of illness, lameness, or poor condition means immediate withdrawal. This veterinary oversight ensures only healthy, fit dogs compete, and any injuries are treated promptly.
4. Rehoming as the Standard Outcome
In the past, not all greyhounds were guaranteed a home after racing. That has changed dramatically. Adoption programs like the Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP), Greyhounds As Pets (QLD), and partnerships with independent rehoming groups now rehome thousands of greyhounds each year. In Victoria, rehoming rates have consistently reached record highs.
5. Education and Licensing for Participants
Owners, trainers, and breeders must now meet strict licensing conditions, including animal welfare education and compliance with codes of practice. Inspections and audits are regularly carried out, with severe penalties for non-compliance.
6. Transparency and Public Reporting
Welfare and injury data are now published openly. Each state regulator releases annual reports detailing rehoming numbers, injury rates, and welfare initiatives. This level of transparency allows the public to hold the industry accountable and track ongoing improvements.
7. Zero Tolerance for Mistreatment
There are stronger penalties than ever for mistreatment or breaches of welfare rules. Integrity hotlines, regular inspections, and independent integrity commissions mean that poor behaviour has no place in the sport.
Straight Up Summary
The industry has undergone sweeping reforms to make greyhound welfare its top priority. From safer tracks and veterinary checks to whole-of-life accountability and record rehoming numbers, the changes are real, measurable, and ongoing. Today, the sport is built around the principle that every greyhound deserves the best possible life – during and after racing.