Premier backs greyhound racing industry as inquiry hearings begin over welfare, transparency concerns

Greyhound racing has been defended by Premier Roger Cook, but he stopped short of guaranteeing the industry’s future as it is put under the microscope of a parliamentary inquiry. Debate around the industry has again ramped up as a committee inquiry into animal welfare and industry transparency in greyhound racing began on Monday. The inquiry was launched by the Standing Committee on Environment and Public Affairs in September, after a petition of more than 26,000 signatures was tabled in parliament. First in the hearings was members of community group Free the Hounds, who advocated for phasing out the industry in three years. Asked on Monday why his Government wasn’t looking at phasing out the industry, Roger Cook said it was still enjoyed by many. “Because it continues to be a popular pastime, it continues to support jobs, and obviously it’s not to everyone’s liking, a lot of people who don’t like horse racing as well,” he said. “We need to balance everyone’s views in this.” Mr Cook accepted the nature of “modern-day sports betting” meant fewer people physically attended the races in person, but that it was still important to some. “It’s one person’s gambling, it’s another person’s way of life,” he said. His comments came after modelling commissioned by Animals Australia was released on Monday, which found the industry would cost the State’s economy nearly $500 million over the next three years while only providing almost $381 million in benefits to the economy over the same time. This equates to a net loss of $116.7 million in economic value, and a $36.4 million loss in 2026 alone according to economist Stephen Walters. Free the Hounds WA president Mel Harrison said she thought it was time to wind down the industry. “We submitted over 300 pages on why they should be shutting this down,” she said. “If our Government right now feels that gambling profits outweigh the cost of living crisis and all of the other problems that we’re having here, and continue it, then god help us all.” The inquiry comes just months after Cannington’s TABtouch Park was temporarily closed after two dogs were euthanised because of injuries sustained while racing, while another two suffered injuries all in one night. The same track was closed in 2024 for a $3 million maintenance and safety upgrade. Across 2025, 21 dogs died and 604 dogs were injured on WA tracks, according to Free the Hounds WA. A Racing and Wagering WA spokesperson said all efforts were taken to ensure animal welfare. “RWWA is committed to supporting the highest levels of care for greyhounds, and prioritises robust welfare standards and transparent regulation across the WA greyhound industry,” they said. “WA greyhound racing’s welfare framework is underpinned by mandatory veterinary care, rigorous track oversight, in addition to strict breeding and rehoming requirements. “RWWA works closely with the Minister for Racing and Gaming to support a sustainable future for greyhound racing in WA.” Racing and Wagering Minister Paul Papalia has been contacted for comment.