Reminder of welfare obligations under LR 94D

Racing Victoria (RV) wishes to remind industry participants of their ongoing responsibilities when making decisions about the sale, rehoming or retirement of thoroughbred racehorses.

While industry participants may choose how they sell or rehome their horses, RV encourages participants to ensure appropriate consideration is given to the future welfare of thoroughbreds after a sale and to utilise, wherever possible, established pathways that are designed to support positive welfare outcomes and successful post-racing careers.

These may include RV's post-racing programs, acknowledged retrainers, rehomers and retirement farms, and reputable thoroughbred auction houses and platforms such as:

• Inglis
• Magic Millions
• Bloodstock Auction
• Andrew Wilson & Co

Reminder of Local Rule of Racing LR 94D

Industry participants are also reminded of their obligations under Victoria’s Local Rule of Racing (LR) 94D, which states that:

A person must not directly or indirectly engage in and/or facilitate the transport, movement, delivery, sale or rehoming of a thoroughbred horse to an abattoir, knackery or similar facility.

A breach of this rule will be considered a Serious Offence and heard by the Victorian Racing Tribunal. Participants should remain mindful of their obligations under the rule when making decisions regarding the sale, transfer or retirement of racehorses.

Available Post-Racing Support

RV has developed a comprehensive suite of 14 post-racing programs and initiatives to assist owners and trainers in finding the most appropriate post-racing outcome for retired racehorses. These include:

• A network of over 50 acknowledged retrainers, rehomers and retirement farms
• PRESET Program
• Retired Thoroughbred Companion Program
• Clerk of the Course Subsidy Program
• Short Term Assisted Recovery (STAR) Program 

If you are considering retirement, rehoming or alternative pathways for a thoroughbred and are unsure of the most appropriate option, the two resources below provide a helpful starting point:

Transition Guide
Acknowledged Post-Racing Program Provider Information

RV's Equine Welfare team is also available to provide guidance and support. For further information about LR 94D, RV's post-racing programs, or available welfare services, please contact the Equine Welfare team via the following methods:

Email: equinewelfare@racingvictoria.net.au
Phone: (03) 9258 4258

Over the past 12 months we have observed more retired racehorses competing in equestrian events, more owners engaging with post-racing programs and as an industry we continue to build stronger safety net support for thoroughbreds in need.

Positive welfare outcomes rely on a whole-of-industry approach before, during and after racing, and we thank you for your continued commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Victorian thoroughbreds.

Kind regards,

Melissa Ware
RV General Manager – Equine Welfare