Greyhound Racing NSW announced the creation of the fund this month in the wake of the industry’s animal cruelty scandal and impending Special Commission of Inquiry.

The plan is to skim the top off prize money and increase registration and naming fees to redirect money to statewide programs.

“GRNSW will continue to prioritise welfare and integrity to ensure the sport is consistent with community expectations,” GRNSW interim CEO Paul Newson said. 

“While investing in improved guidance for industry participants and developing a future strategic direction for the sport that will attract new participants and encourage responsible industry development.” 

The changes will be implemented from July 1 and have left some industry participants scratching their heads.

“It is like taxing people who are on the dole,” Abernethy greyhound trainer and educator Bob Whitelaw said. “It’s probably something that had to happen, but the people being penalised are the participants.”

The millions for the fund will be generated by taking four to 10 per cent off the prize money in Wentworth Park and Group races, which equates to about $480,000 in 12 months.

Registration of litter and naming application fees will be increased to generate about $260,000 and travel subsidies will be reduced by $5 to save a further $350, 000.

“If you are going to attack the top-end of the prize money scale, well OK,” Mr Whitelaw said.

“If they try and tax the second tier of racing, you will see participants dig their heels in and leave the sport.”

Money raised will go towards industry initiatives including education and compliance resources, engagement of additional compliance officers, to be supported by the development of a new industry supervision strategy.

A chief veterinary officer will be employed to lead the welfare strategy for the sport and ensure welfare is central to everything GRNSW does.

The money will also go to the GRNSW Greyhounds As Pets program and a rebate program for animal welfare groups that re-home greyhounds.

Mr Newson acknowledged that reduced subsidies or additional costs for the industry are always difficult, but said that reform was necessary and the industry must embrace this opportunity to change the sport for the better.