The Finocchiaro CLP Government is strengthening local racing with a clear plan for improved governance and long-term growth, with the Strategic Review of the Northern Territory Racing Industry now complete.
The review, commissioned in December 2024, examined how racing across the Territory can become more sustainable, better managed and deliver greater benefits for local jobs and the economy.
Minister for Racing Marie-Clare Boothby said the review aligned with the CLP Government's commitment to a year of action, certainty and security and sets out a practical and future-focused path forward.
"We're building a racing industry that's here for the long haul - one that supports hundreds of local jobs, boosts tourism and remains a proud part of our Territory lifestyle while contributing more than $160 million a year to our economy," said Ms Boothby.
"These reforms are about working together, reducing duplication and delivering better outcomes for everyone involved in our racing industry, and we are getting on with the job of putting the recommendations into action."
The reforms include:
A new governing body, Racing NT (RNT), will replace Thoroughbred Racing NT, featuring an independent, skills-based board and a clear charter covering both thoroughbred and greyhound racing.A new funding agreement will provide the industry with certainty through to 2032.Multi-year club funding agreements with the Darwin Turf Club, Alice Springs Turf Club and Darwin Greyhound Association will be introduced to enhance performance and ensure long-term sustainability.Capital works funding will be managed by RNT through a transparent, needs-based process.Race scheduling will be refined to grow field sizes and wagering returns while keeping total prize money strong.
The government supported 14 of the 15 recommendations, with the exception of the proposed Racing Industry Contribution Levy, noting that wagering operators are already contributing more after the doubling of the taxation cap in the CLP Government's 2025/26 Budget.
Additional reforms proposed include shared services between clubs, smarter commercial use of racecourse land, a greyhound rehoming partnership with South Australia, and new training pathways to attract and retain racing participants in the Territory.
Darwin Turf Club CEO Chris Chaffe said: "The Darwin Turf Club welcomes the completion of this review, and important reforms set to strengthen the long-term sustainability and enhance financial stability of the Territory's racing industry.
"We look forward to working with Racing NT, government, and industry stakeholders to deliver these reforms, which will help ensure the viability of our Club and racing continues to thrive."
Alice Springs Turf Club General Manager Tony McGovern said: "Clubs have been calling for clearer direction and better coordination across the industry for years, and this review with the government's response provide the certainty and foundation needed to continue growing racing in the NT."
"Our Club looks forward to continuing to have a close relationship with the CLP government."
Darwin Greyhound Association General Manager Nick Prus said: "These reforms strengthen participation, animal welfare, and support a sustainable future for NT greyhound racing.
"The rehoming partnership will help more greyhounds find forever homes and ensure their wellbeing beyond the track."
Implementation of the review's recommendations will begin immediately, with the government working closely with clubs and stakeholders to manage the transition.
To read the review and the Government's response, visit the NT Government website here.
