Golden decision gives NSW Group 1 parity with Victoria, but stakes gap still exists
The Asian Pattern Committee's latest upgrades have lifted NSW to level with Victoria for Group 1 races. But Victoria has 15 more overall black-type races.
Bren O'Brien's Latest Articles
Revisiting the Formula – Racing’s latest quest for a league of its own
Greg Maffei made Formula 1 a global growth story and is looking to apply some of the same principles to thoroughbred racing through the newly launched Horse Racing League. Bren O’Brien looks at the challenges and opportunities of a league concept in thoroughbred racing.
A one-horse race: Jumps feature scrapped after rivals scared away
Concerns persist over the depth of fields in jumps racing in Victoria after a feature steeplechase was called off with just one acceptor, and the key hurdle attracted just four runners.
Morgan Kelly takes reins as Australian Turf Club enters administration
Racing NSW has formally placed the Australian Turf Club under administration, appointing Morgan Kelly to lead a comprehensive review of the club’s operations, finances and governance following a lengthy court dispute over the regulator’s powers.
Each-way Abetz – Tassie treasurer forecasts wagering law changes as betr’s move makes waves
Treasurer Eric Abetz has revealed Tasmania's gaming laws will need updating after online bookmaker betr switched from a Northern Territory licence, a move the government is hailing as a vote of confidence in the state's economy.
Run The Numbers – Stallion market cools as fewer sires get fee increases
Only 10 commercial-level stallions in Australia have had their fees raised ahead of the 2026 breeding season, but, as Run The Numbers finds out, service prices remain close to record highs.
ACMA warns MMA fighter in first crackdown on gambling influencers
A UFC fighter has become the first influencer targeted by a federal regulator for promoting an illegal offshore gambling service, as tougher restrictions on the promotion of gambling loom.
Betr’s southern flight – Bookie sets up under Tasmanian licence
Betr has become the first bookmaker to exit the Northern Territory licensing regime, immediately transferring its wagering licence to Tasmania in a development that will be keenly watched across the gambling industry.
AUSTRAC orders bet365 to improve anti-money laundering controls
AUSTRAC has forced online bookmaker bet365 to tighten anti-money laundering controls after investigations uncovered compliance concerns, as regulators intensify scrutiny of the gambling industry's exposure to financial crime risks.
Open letter raises red flags over NSW trainer relicensing requirements
In an open letter addressed to Racing NSW, country trainer Debbie Prest has raised concerns about the regulator’s licensing requirements, questioning the rollout of the Sleip App and requests for financial information.
