An inquiry has been launched into Greyhound Racing NSW in response to animal welfare allegations.

The NSW Government has announced an independent inquiry into Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW) following serious concerns about governance, track safety, and animal welfare. 

The announcement comes in response to allegations detailed in a report by former GRNSW Chief Veterinary Officer Alex Brittan.

Minister for Gaming and Racing, David Harris, has appointed Lea Drake as Acting Commissioner of the NSW Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission (GWIC) to lead the investigation. 

The inquiry will utilise GWIC's powers under Part 8 of the Greyhound Racing Act 2017 and will address multiple aspects of GRNSW’s operations. 

This includes the care and rehoming of greyhounds, procurement and recruitment practices, and the accuracy of GRNSW’s reporting on greyhound welfare.

The investigation follows a damning report by Alex Brittan, which outlined extensive issues within the industry. 

Brittan's report alleges widespread animal abuse, under-reporting of deaths, and failures in rehoming practices. 

Among the most troubling claims are that greyhounds are raced at unsustainable levels, leading to high stress, injury, and death. 

The report highlighted that a travel subsidy aimed at increasing race participation has exacerbated these issues, with dogs being raced excessively.

Additionally, Brittan reported that many retired greyhounds were not being rehomed, with thousands remaining in commercial kennels. He also noted that some greyhounds endured extreme distress, including clawing at metal cages until their toenails were ripped off. 

The report suggested that deaths were often attributed to vague causes like snake bites, without proper investigation.

In response to these allegations, the NSW Government says it has taken several steps to ensure the integrity and welfare standards within the industry. 

Serious allegations have been referred to relevant authorities, including the Independent Commission Against Corruption. Regulations under the Greyhound Racing Act have been updated to grant the Minister greater flexibility to remove the GRNSW Board and appoint an administrator if necessary.

Harris emphasised the government's commitment to upholding high standards of animal welfare and industry integrity. 

“I am absolutely committed to ensuring a competitive, responsible and sustainable greyhound racing industry, with the highest standards of animal welfare and integrity,” he said. 

The GRNSW Board has been issued a ‘show cause’ notice to justify why its members should not be removed. 

Additionally, a separate review of the Wyee rehoming facility's operations has been requested, following concerns about the treatment of greyhounds at the facility.

GRNSW Acting CEO Wayne Billett welcomed the inquiry, acknowledging Ms Drake's reputation as a respected investigator. 

“Ms Drake is one of Australia’s most respected and distinguished investigators and mediators with a reputation for forensic enquiry and critical thinking. We welcome the opportunity for external examination of our processes and record,” Billett said.

Former CEO Robert Macaulay resigned in the days before the inquiry was announced. The inquiry is set to report findings by 13 December 2024.