The Next Lap sets a clear course of action for industry, government and the broader community for the future of Queensland racing.
It outlines the next steps and how each segment of Queensland’s racing industry must work together to turn commitments into a reality.
The Next Lap reinforces the shared responsibilities that keep Queensland racing strong:
- Government provides the framework, through regulation and legislation, that makes racing possible.
- Industry delivers the race meetings that bring the sport to life, ensuring the safety of participants, volunteers, animals and race goers, while creating memorable experiences for all.
- Communities drive the economic heartbeat of racing, supporting the livelihoods of more than 14,500 Queenslanders across the state.
Each group plays a vital role. For racing to not only endure but to thrive, every part of this ecosystem must contribute with purpose and unity. The Next Lap delivers a plan Queensland needs to succeed.
The Next Lap is a considered and practical roadmap which will be implemented with focus, consistency and discipline. This plan charts the course for every facet of Queensland’s racing industry.
Highlights of The Next Lap
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Prizemoney levels will be retained
The Queensland Government recognises that prizemoney represents real wages to racing participants across all codes. That is why we will deliver our plan for Queensland racing without cutting standard or feature prizemoney.
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Infrastructure will be improved
Our plan will deliver a $200 million Racing Future Fund, a new look program to help deliver modern and fit-for- purpose racing infrastructure across the state, while also providing a platform for industry wide investment opportunities.
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Country racing will be safeguarded for the future
Country racing is the lifeblood of communities right across Queensland. We have a plan to make our country race clubs stronger, through access to infrastructure investment, a stronger management framework, enhanced feature race meetings and measures to address workforce shortages.
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Governance will be more efficient
The Queensland Government will establish a more efficient racing governance model, while ensuring Racing Queensland (RQ) and the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission (QRIC) maintain independence.
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Animal welfare protocols will be enhanced
The Queensland Government takes animal welfare very seriously. Our plan puts the care of racing animals ahead of profits, with many initiatives aimed at improving racing safety and post-racing welfare outcomes.
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Racing integrity will be bolstered
We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, across the industry. This plan outlines the strategic investments that will ensure safer and fairer racing for all.
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Racing will better engage with communities
Racing’s social license is essential to its longevity. Our plan outlines opportunities to connect more Queenslanders to racing through unique partnerships and activations.
Message from the Minister for Sport and Racing
Racing is at the heart of Queensland’s identity, driving regional economies, supporting 14,500 jobs, and fostering community pride and connection across the state. The Queensland Government has welcomed the independent Queensland Racing Review and is committed to delivering a bold plan for a resilient, sustainable, and thriving racing industry. With a focus on operational sustainability, modern infrastructure, animal welfare, and integrity, this roadmap sets the stage for a strong future, ensuring Queensland racing continues to prosper for generations to come.
Next steps
Racing Queensland will lead the next phase, with a detailed Implementation Program to be released in early 2026.
This Implementation Program will clearly outline the timing of:
- legislative change
- delivery of priority infrastructure
- structural changes within statutory bodies
- future engagement with industry.
This is the plan Queensland racing has been calling for. It’s what our industry needs and what it deserves.
Key resources
The Next Lap: A plan for the future of Queensland racing (PDF, 4MB)
Recommendations and Response table (PDF, 286KB)