Queensland Government unveils major overhaul and long-term plan for state's racing industry

The Queensland Government has released The Next Lap: A plan for the future of Queensland racing, outlining its official response to the most extensive review of the state's racing sector in more than 25 years.

Fulfilling a key election commitment, the Crisafulli Government has committed to broad reforms designed to strengthen integrity, modernise governance, upgrade critical infrastructure and improve animal welfare across all three racing codes.

A new $200 million Racing Future Fund will underpin these changes, supporting the delivery of contemporary racing facilities statewide. Major projects include construction of a new grandstand at Eagle Farm, development of a "Racing HQ" precinct at Albion Park, new harness racing infrastructure at Marburg and Toowoomba, upgraded lighting at the Toowoomba Turf Club, and a new greyhound track in Bundaberg.

The ageing John Power Stand at Eagle Farm will be replaced with modern, accessible spectator facilities as part of a joint project between Racing Queensland (RQ) and the Brisbane Racing Club, with additional investment to be recouped through the partnership.

Albion Park will be transformed into a new central hub for the industry, becoming home to RQ, the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC), and a new Racing Science Centre. The redevelopment also cements Albion Park as the state's premier harness racing venue.

As part of governance reforms, QRIC will adopt a new hybrid model, transferring its non-core functions to RQ. This change allows QRIC to focus solely on integrity and stewarding services. A new Independent Commissioner of Stewards will report directly to the Minister for Racing.

The government says the plan represents a long-awaited reset for the harness racing industry, which it argues suffered from neglected infrastructure under previous administrations. New training facilities at Marburg and the reinstatement of harness racing at Toowoomba are expected to boost regional engagement and attract new participants.

An independent Racing Infrastructure Board will also be established to ensure future projects are prioritised on evidence and industry need. RQ will streamline its property holdings and sell underutilised assets, including the former Norwell harness site and QRIC's Bowen Hills premises.

Animal welfare enhancements form a core part of the plan, with expanded support for the rehoming and post-racing care of horses and greyhounds. A revamped Greyhound Retirement Program will provide monthly care vouchers to owners of retired dogs.

The government has also committed to strengthening the future of country racing by reducing administrative burdens on smaller clubs, enhancing participation and expanding popular race series such as the Battle of the Bush.

Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tim Mander, said the reforms would deliver "generational change" for the sector.

"The Crisafulli Government promised a comprehensive review of the industry, and now we are delivering a clear and ambitious plan for Queensland racing," Mr Mander said.

"This blueprint provides modern governance, improved integrity, vital infrastructure upgrades, strong animal welfare protections and long-term certainty for country racing. The former government failed to provide a path forward for this $2.5 billion industry that supports nearly 14,500 Queensland jobs."

The review, led by former Australian Turf Club Chairman Matt McGrath, included visits to 73 race clubs and extensive engagement with industry stakeholders across the state. More than 1,200 public submissions were considered as part of the consultation process.