In 2015, Australia’s multi-billion-dollar greyhound racing industry pledged to reform following a damning investigation that revealed up to 17,000 young dogs died preventable deaths annually. These shocking revelations led to a short-lived government ban.
Nearly a decade later, Greyhound Racing New South Wales (GRNSW), the sport’s hub in Australia, is under scrutiny again due to a whistleblower’s efforts. A former chief veterinarian’s explosive report, released by lawmakers, describes the industry as rife with “exploitation and suffering,” alleging dogs are raced at “barbaric” rates, euthanized without cause, or left to languish in metal cages once they can no longer compete.
In response, executive heads are rolling, and an inquiry—welcomed by GRNSW—has been launched to investigate the allegations. Critics’ calls for an outright ban on greyhound racing are growing louder.
Despite waning public support, the state’s premier has stated he won’t shut down the sport, leading to a standoff with advocates for its abolition.
“The reality is the greyhound racing industry cannot exist without systemic animal cruelty,” says NSW Animal Justice MP Emma Hurst. “It will be shut down – it’s just a matter of when.”