2015/19: Should greyhound racing in Australia be banned?





Introduction to the media issue

Video clip at right:
On February 16, 2015, ABC News carried a report detailing the allegations to be made that evening in a Four Corners' program on Australia's greyhound racing industry. If you cannot see this clip, it will be because video is blocked by your network. To view the clip, access from home or from a public library, or from another network which allows viewing of video clips.


What they said...
'This shows how vital greyhound racing is to Victoria and the many people who work in or enjoy this wonderful industry'
Then Premier of Victoria and Racing Minister, Dr Denis Napthine, commenting on a 2014 report on the social and economic value of greyhound racing to Victoria

'When you're euthanasing these dogs, they're not old dogs, they're completely healthy, and most of them are still standing there wagging their tails and licking your face while you're actually euthanasing them'
Veterinary nurse Victoria Luxton-Bain

The issue at a glance
On September 28, 2015, Stephen Rushton SC counsel assisting the New South Wales Special Commission of Inquiry into Greyhound Racing called for the greyhound racing industry to be shut down if it cannot maintain animal welfare standards.
On October 2, 2015, the new head of greyhound racing in New South Wales, Paul Newson, stated he was 'incredulous' at the poor leadership and lack of regulation in the sport when he took over following the live baiting scandal.
The live baiting scandal was precipitated by an ABC Four Corners' report on animal welfare abuses within the Australian greyhound racing industry. The report was titled 'Making a Killing' and was televised on February 16, 2015. It detailed abuses in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland.
A number of animal welfare groups have called for the banning of greyhound racing in Australia. Others have argued that it should only be allowed to continue if it can be substantially reformed.