The Liberals and Nationals will establish a Ministerial Racing Industry Consultation Group if elected in November.
Speaking on Racing.com today Shadow Minister for Racing, Tim Bull, said the consultancy group will improve communication between grassroots racing stakeholders and the Minister’s office.
“Racing Victoria does a great job in administering racing in this state, but it is also important that key industry groups have access to the Minister to discuss areas of importance and share ideas on where they believe improvements can be made,” Mr Bull said.
“As Local Government Minister I had a mayoral consultation group and it was refreshing to get feedback from councils across the state and this would bring similar benefits.”
Under the plan, the jockeys’ association, harness drivers, trainers, owners and breeders, punters, and club representatives would come together four times a year to discuss matters.
“This grassroots feedback removes the disconnect between the industry and the minister, working to provide real solutions for Victoria’s $4.3 billion racing industry,” Mr Bull said.
“Racing in Victoria is directly responsible for more than 33,800 full time equivalent jobs, with more than 121,200 people directly employed, volunteering or participating in racing industry activities.
“Racing is a key part of our state’s culture, a key employer and economic driver in Victoria.”