The future of greyhound racing
Tasmania is approaching a decision that will determine whether greyhound racing continues or is phased out.
In late 2025 the Tasmanian Government announced its intention to phase out greyhound racing in Tasmania. The decision came after years of concerns about injuries, deaths and the welfare risks that are inherent in racing greyhounds.
Since then, a Bill has been drafted to ban greyhound racing in Tasmania, with a transition period to allow the industry to wind down and to ensure that greyhounds are safely rehomed.
That Bill must now pass through Tasmania’s Parliament, including the Legislative Council, or Upper House.
This is where things become uncertain.
The greyhound racing industry is now working hard to try to stop the Bill from passing. If the Bill does not pass Parliament, greyhound racing will continue in Tasmania.
The vote in the Tasmanian Upper House will be very close, which means community voices matter.
Our position has not changed
Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania believes greyhound racing should be phased out in Tasmania.
Our position on greyhound racing has never changed. It is not political and it is not complex. It is grounded in one simple principle.
The welfare of dogs must come first.
Greyhounds are gentle, affectionate dogs who deserve the chance to live safe, happy lives as companions. Yet in racing they must run in groups at speeds approaching 70 kilometres per hour, exposing them to significant risk of injury and harm.
For us, one injury is one too many.
There is simply no safe or humane way to race greyhounds in large bunches at these speeds.
What we see in our care
As an organisation responsible for caring for and rehoming dogs, Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania sees the harsh realities behind greyhound racing.
We receive many of the greyhounds exiting the industry once they are no longer considered useful.
Last financial year we rehomed 44 ex-racing greyhounds, the highest number we have taken in over the past five years.
Those dogs stayed with us for a combined 2,758 days of care, including veterinary treatment, behavioural support and rehabilitation. Over the past year we have also seen the average length of stay for a greyhound double, meaning these dogs are remaining in our care longer while we work to find them suitable homes.
Many greyhounds arrive needing medical treatment and time to adjust to life outside the racing industry. Some come to us frightened and unsure of the world around them. It can take patience, veterinary care and many months before they are ready to move into a loving home.
Through this work we see the injuries, the trauma and the long-term consequences of an industry that exists to fuel human entertainment and gambling, where dogs too often bear the cost and are exploited, exposed to significant risk and ultimately discarded.
Dogs deserve better
These dogs are not commodities.
They are companions.
Greyhounds deserve a future where they are valued for who they are. Beautiful, gentle dogs who belong in loving homes where they are safe and cared for.
Tasmania now has a once in a generation opportunity to decide the future of greyhound racing.
Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania believes Tasmania can move forward in a way that protects greyhounds and ensures they have the opportunity to live full lives beyond racing.
If you feel the same way, stay tuned.
In the coming weeks we will share more information about how you can help ensure this Bill passes and greyhounds in Tasmania have the future they deserve.