The ban on greyhound racing in New South Wales has been officially quashed after state MPs repealed the legislation early Thursday.
The controversial ban, which was announced by former Premier Mike Baird last July, had promised to shut down the industry following a report that cited widespread cruelty and animal abuse throughout the sport.
The issue proved extremely divisive with many applauding Mr Baird’s actions while others insisted it punished the majority for the actions of a few. Mr Baird later backed down but promised tougher oversight of the industry to ensure animal cruelty was stamped out.
The subsequent repeal legislation has now been passed and includes provision for a new integrity commission to govern the sport and life bans for anyone found guilty of animal cruelty. The state government will also commit AU$41 million in funding over the next five years to put the reforms in place.
Racing Minister Paul Toole said, “We can now begin the important work of implementing these changes to develop an ethical and sustainable greyhound racing industry.
“One of our first tasks will be establishing the independent Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission with wide-ranging powers to target wrongdoing.”
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