Hazzard time: Consultancy over Racing Act review to cost $268,840

Former Heath Minister Brad Hazzard will be paid a consultancy fee of nearly $270,000 for his work in reviewing the NSW Thoroughbred Racing Act.

Government documents available via the buy.nsw.gov.au digital platform show that Hazzard’s consultancy period regarding the review spans from July 16 this year until April 3, 2026.

The total value of the consultancy is $268,840 and is categorised under the rather vague description “a project to be undertaken”.

Hazzard’s appointment to the key role of leading the inquiry was announced in August by Racing Minister David Harris.

At the time, Harris said Hazzard had “extensive experience managing complex reforms and consultation, as well as delivering policy and legislative change in challenging contexts with diverse stakeholders and views”.

Hazzard spent nearly 32 years in parliament, serving as Health Minister for six years and Attorney General for one year.

Asked about his appointment in parliamentary estimates in September, Harris was convinced that the former Liberal MP was the right person to conduct the review, which was prompted by the outcome of the Select Committee inquiry into the proposed sale of Rosehill racecourse.

Outside the bubble: Hazzard appointment defended by NSW Racing Minister

The fact that former MP Brad Hazzard, who will lead the review of the Thoroughbred Racing Act, wasn’t a regular racegoer is seen as a positive by the man who appointed him, NSW Racing Minister David Harris.

The StraightBren O’Brien

“Minister Hazzard has a very good history in government. He understands legislation. He understands the interaction between legislation and government processes,” Harris said.

“I discussed it with him broadly and I was confident that he will do a good job and I think he will do a good job.”

The April end to Hazzard’s contract is the closest thing to a publicised timeline on the outcome of the review.

The consultancy fee will see him paid more, on a monthly basis, than Harris is paid as the Minister for Gaming and Racing.

Public consultations on the review opened this week. Breeders, trainers, jockeys, clubs, racegoers and the wider racing community have until 5pm on Monday, November 24, to make a submission.

Discussion paper released as part of Thoroughbred Racing Act review process

The NSW government is seeking public submissions on issues such as governance structures, transparency and accountability requirements that sit within the framework of the Thoroughbred Racing Act 1996.

The StraightThe Straight News Desk

The review will assess whether the Act remains appropriate to ensure the integrity and proper regulation of thoroughbred racing in NSW and to support the industry’s development and sustainability.

It will also consider whether it promotes integrity, transparency, and the welfare of animals and jockeys.