The Allan Labor Government is backing major upgrades to the Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) to improve the welfare and wellbeing of retired racing greyhounds.
Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines today announced $3 million from the Victorian Racing Industry Fund to upgrade the GAP facility in Seymour, with Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) contributing a further $2 million towards the project.
The latest redevelopment will deliver refurbished and modernised facilities, including upgraded veterinary operations, new exercise yards, an administration centre and additional kennels to increase capacity by 40.
Since 1996, the Greyhound Adoption Program has been giving retired racing greyhounds a second chance at life, helping them make the transition from the track to family homes as Australia's largest greyhound rehoming agency.
The Seymour site has been the program's main hub since 2003 and plays a vital role in caring for and preparing greyhounds for adoption - supported by a smaller centre in Tullamarine.
When the upgrades are complete in 2029, the expanded facilities will allow an extra 55 greyhounds to be adopted in the first year alone - giving even more dogs the chance to find loving homes.
The upgrades build on previous improvements at the Seymour facility, including new day yards that provide plenty of space for the greyhounds to play and exercise freely.
The project forms part of the Labor Government's focus on the health and safety of greyhounds in Victoria and will help maintain the program's standing as a world leader in greyhound rehoming.
For more information on adopting a greyhound, visit gap.grv.org.au.
As stated by Minister for Racing Anthony Carbines
"We are backing Greyhound Racing Victoria to invest in the wellbeing and welfare of greyhounds at every stage of life, but particularly as they transition from racing to retirement."
"Programs like this show our dedication to putting animal welfare first - ensuring every retired racing greyhound is well cared for and given the best chance to thrive in their new home."
As stated by Greyhound Racing Victoria Chair Tom Salom
"This redevelopment project to improve and expand our Seymour facility will enable our retiring greyhounds to have the best quality of life before they are adopted into loving families."
