Tasmanian greyhound racing ban on hold

The Tasmanian government’s plans to ban greyhound racing in the state have hit a snag with the legislation designed to enact the ban pulled from the parliamentary agenda.

The Liberal government, led by Premier Jeremy Rockliff, was hoping to get the approval through the Legislative Council this week. It needed three of five upper house independents on side, but it appears unlikely that will happen.

Greens MLC Cassy O’Connor and independent Meg Webb intended to support the bill but independents Tania Rattray and Casey Hiscutt were planning to vote against it.

It leaves Bec Thomas as the deciding vote and the member for Elwick, where Hobart’s greyhound track is located, has voiced her concerns.

Crossbench upper house members have raised a lack of industry consultation, the speed of the transition and welfare of dogs and workers as unresolved issues.

Debate has now been pushed to the next sitting in mid-May, after the elections for the Legislative Council seats of Rosevears and Huon are held.

Rockliff announced the ban in the wake of last year’s state election, with plans to shut down greyhound racing by June 30, 2029. The bill to ban the sport has passed the lower house.