The Racing and Wagering Amendment implements key structural reforms recommended by the independent Strategic Review of the NT Racing Industry, establishing Racing NT as the dedicated race control body for thoroughbred and greyhound racing.
The changes formally separate racing and wagering functions, allowing Racing NT to focus on the growth, governance, and sustainability of the racing industry, while the Northern Territory Wagering Commission focuses on wagering regulation, licensing, compliance and dispute resolution.
Minister for Racing and Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Marie-Clare Boothby said that the changes were about a stronger and more sustainable racing industry.
"Racing is a core part of the Territory lifestyle, and reaches into so many areas of our economy," Minister Boothby said.
"Race events attract visitors into the Territory's one-of-a-kind regions - boosting local businesses, backing over 1,000 local jobs, and adding $160 million to our local economy."
"These reforms are about driving sustainable growth for racing, providing certainty to the industry, and security for everyday Territorians who rely on racing to put food on the table."
"Racing controls racing and wagering deals with wagering - it's about streamlining the process, providing clarity, and positioning the racing industry for long-term, sustainable - and local - growth."
The changes come after the Alice Springs Cup Carnival celebrated a remarkable month of racing, events, and activity, bringing in around 2,000 attendees, and a return to its traditional May Day Alice Springs Cup event.
Minister Boothby recently visited the Alice Springs Turf Club ahead of the carnival, unveiling upgraded jockey and steward facilities which were funded by the NT Government.
"What makes racing so special in the Northern Territory is the people: the clubs, volunteers, trainers, jockeys, small businesses and hospitality workers who exemplify our warm hospitality and determination."
"While Labor abandoned racing and stripped the portfolio, we're putting racing front and centre as we grow our visitor economy, which is why we're investing in enabling infrastructure and delivering significant reform."
Despite a challenging start to the season, the year ahead in racing is busy. Over the weekend, the Tennant Creek Races put the Barkly on show, and the Darwin Greyhounds held a Memorial Night to remember in Winnellie. Meanwhile, the Darwin Turf Club is gearing up for the Darwin Cup Carnival in just over six weeks' time showing that the future of racing in the Territory is strong.
"In our year of growth, certainty, and security, we'll continue to back the Territory's racing industry and the local jobs, businesses, and opportunities it supports."
