The Animal Justice Party helped bring to light an explosive report, based on findings from the former Chief Veterinary Officer of Greyhound Racing NSW. This report exposed alarming issues within the industry, including the deaths of thousands of dogs, ongoing welfare concerns, and misleading rehoming statistics that misrepresent the true state of the industry.

The greyhounds need us and we must speak out.

Despite a brief ban in 2016, greyhounds are still dying. The racing industry hasn’t changed, and the welfare of these animals is still being sacrificed for profit.

• Thousands of dogs dying due to poor conditions and neglect.
• Ongoing welfare problems that have not been addressed.
• Misleading rehoming statistics that make the industry seem better than it is.

View the Drake Inquiry into Greyhound Racing here

This is our chance to push for real, lasting change.

📆Submissions close 27th of September 2024

Why Your Voice Matters 📢

Greyhounds can’t speak for themselves. 

By sharing your thoughts, you can help shine a light on their suffering and support the changes needed to protect them. Your submission could be a key factor in bringing about these necessary reforms.

We need you to speak up against cruelty!

How to make a submission

Submissions can be made as an individual or on behalf of an organisation.

Make your submission

You may also provide your submission to the Inquiry by email to [email protected].

Please use this option if you wish to provide any documents to the Inquiry, by attaching those documents to the email.

Be prepared to include the following details when making your submission:

• Name
• Address
• Contact

However, you can choose whether you would like your name and/or submission made public.

There is a limit of 4,000 characters or 800 words. If your submission is longer than that please email it through to the Inquiry. [email protected].

Your voice is powerful! Your submission can help shape the future of animal welfare and ensure the ban on live sheep export remains in place.

Submission Guide - Your voice is needed 📢

There are several important terms of reference related to greyhound welfare that you can address in your submission.

View the: Terms of Reference

We've put together some responses and points for you to consider when drafting your submission. Whether you have a little time or a lot, every submission counts and makes a real difference. 

Points to consider when writing your submission:

• Highlight the findings of the former Chief Veterinary Officer of Greyhound Racing NSW (Brittan Report), obtained by the Animal Justice Party, revealing thousands of dead dogs, severe welfare issues, and inflated rehoming statistics.
• In FY23/24, 4,333 greyhounds were injured (12 per day), with 926 major injuries (21.4%), many leading to euthanasia (Reference GWIC Annual Report).
• Names of the 1,074 greyhounds that died in FY23/24 were not released, and race video incidents are often censored (Reference GWIC Annual Report).
• Point out the issues with under reported injuries and deaths.
• Highlight poor living conditions and medical care for retired racing greyhounds.
• Rehoming data is unregulated, and the industry breeds four times as many greyhounds as can be rehomed by NSW GAP.
• Emphasise strong public support for ending greyhound racing and urge continued pressure on the government. A Sydney Morning Herald poll (July 2024) found 83% of people support banning greyhound racing.
• Assert that the industry has had enough chances and call for an immediate ban to prevent further suffering.

Example responses

When drafting your response, personalise it as much as possible—share your thoughts, experiences, and concerns in your own words. This approach will not only resonate more deeply with those reviewing the inquiry but will also reflect the genuine care and commitment we all share for the welfare of animals. Your responses need to be in relation to  the inquiry terms. Please find the Terms of reference HERE.

Welfare Concerns Related to Greyhound Racing

Highlight the inherent suffering and welfare issues faced by greyhounds in the racing industry.

• Injuries and Deaths: Emphasise the severe injuries and high death rates that greyhounds endure during races. Common issues include broken legs, spinal injuries and fatalities, often resulting from inadequate safety measures and medical care.

Example Response: "Greyhound racing subjects dogs to significant physical harm, with frequent reports of severe injuries and fatalities. The risks of fractures, dislocations, and even death during races are well-documented and remain a major concern. I urge the committee to prioritise the welfare of these animals by considering the severe impact of racing conditions on their health and well-being."

• Adoption and Rehoming: Point out concerns with the management of adoption and rehoming programs, including inflated rehoming statistics and inadequate conditions in some facilities.

Example Response: "Despite efforts by GRNSW to rehome retired greyhounds, there are persistent issues with the accuracy of rehoming statistics and the condition of rehoming facilities. Many dogs are left in substandard conditions, highlighting the need for more effective and transparent rehoming practices. It is crucial to address these gaps to ensure that all greyhounds receive the care they deserve."

Personal Response: "I am deeply troubled by the ongoing reports of injuries and deaths among greyhounds in racing. Witnessing the distress and suffering of these dogs highlights the urgent need for change. The current state of welfare and care in the industry does not align with our values of compassion and respect for animals."

Tip: If you have specific examples or personal experiences related to the suffering of greyhounds in racing, including these can strengthen your submission and underscore the need for reform.

Every submission counts and helps push for change! Even a simple sentence like, “Greyhound racing is inhumane and should be banned,” can make a difference.

Need help with writing or lodging your submission?

Reach out to us via email: [email protected]