New scratching fee model

Racing Victoria (RV) advises that a new scratching fee structure will take effect in Victoria for race meetings scheduled from 1 February 2026 onwards. 

The new fee structure applies for professional flat races (excluding Group and Listed races) and jumps races and brings Victoria into line with the model in other states where fees are structured around the declaration of a rider.

A new standard scratching fee of $274.25 (ex GST) will mirror the current riding fee that RV is required to pay to the declared rider on a scratched horse. This scratching fee is lower than that applied for the majority of professional races in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia.

The current 50% discount for scratchings lodged prior to 4pm on the day before a race meeting will conclude on 31 January 2026. Instead, a discounted fee of $100 (ex GST) will apply when a horse is scratched prior to the declaration of a rider.

The new scratching fee structure has been implemented following consultation with all stakeholder groups, including through the industry’s Racing Forum.

The new model is designed to protect and enhance field sizes, which have declined over the past decade and continue to be challenged. Maximising field sizes through managing the volume of scratchings promotes stronger wagering outcomes which ultimately benefits all through the maintenance of prizemoney and other returns to industry.

The new scratching fee structure will be as follows: 

Scratching with a rider declared - $274.25 (ex GST)
Scratching without a rider declared - $100 (ex GST)
Scratching with a veterinary certificate - $120 (ex GST)
Scratching with a veterinary certificate & 30-day stand down – Free
Picnic race scratchings - $10 (ex GST)
Group & Listed race scratchings – existing percentage of prizemoney as advertised

The existing scratching fee structure will apply until 31 January 2026.