Extra assistance package for NSW stablehands and race officials

Racing NSW has announced an additional $1.6 million assistance package for the racing industry’s lowest‑paid workers.

Eligible stablehands who qualify for the 2 per cent stablehands prizemoney bonus and work at least eight hours a week will receive $100 per week through to 31 May 2026.

The same weekly payment will apply to casual raceday officials, including swab officials, clerks of scales, starters, judges and barrier attendants who regularly service race meetings.

Trainers will lodge weekly staff hours through the Racing Australia system, with Racing NSW paying stable staff directly, while raceday officials will be paid via existing payroll arrangements.

Racing NSW Chief Executive Peter V’landys AM said the decision reflected strong feedback from across the industry.

“We always want to ensure that the industry’s lowest paid workers are supported,” he said. “This new payment, in addition to the 2 per cent prizemoney bonus, provides extra support when it is needed most.” The new funding follows Thursday’s $1.5 million fuel relief package for industry participants.