WA greyhound racing regulator defends controversial sport at inquiry

The Western Australian greyhound racing regulator has formally defended the industry’s integrity and safety standards during a high-stakes parliamentary inquiry. Addressing the committee in Perth, Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) asserted its unwavering commitment to the welfare of the animals and the long-term viability of the sport, following intense public scrutiny.

The inquiry was launched in response to a significant community petition, which gathered more than 26,000 signatures calling for a closer look at the industry’s practices. Industry leaders argued that current regulatory frameworks provide a robust safety net for the dogs, while acknowledging the need for continuous improvement to meet evolving community expectations regarding animal treatment.

“The tension between long-standing sporting traditions and modern ethical benchmarks has reached a critical juncture, where the industry’s social licence now depends entirely on transparent accountability.”

As the proceedings continue, the committee will examine evidence from both animal welfare advocates and racing stakeholders to determine if further legislative reforms are required. The outcome of this inquiry is expected to shape the future of the greyhound industry in the West, balancing economic contributions with the ethical concerns of a growing segment of the population.