Racing Victoria overhauls scratching fee structure

Racing Victoria has announced a comprehensive overhaul of its scratching fee structure, set to commence for race meetings scheduled from February 1, 2026 onwards.

The reformed fee model applies to professional flat races (excluding Group and Listed races) and jumps races, aligning Victoria with the framework already established in other states where fees are structured around rider declarations.

A new standard scratching fee of $274.25 (ex GST) will reflect the current riding fee that RV is obligated to pay the declared rider on a scratched horse. This scratching fee is lower than that imposed for the majority of professional races in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia.

The existing 50% discount for scratchings lodged before 4pm on the day preceding a race meeting will cease on January 31, 2026. In its place, a reduced fee of $100 (ex GST) will apply when a horse is scratched prior to rider declaration.

The new scratching fee structure follows extensive consultation with all stakeholder groups, including through the industry’s Racing Forum.

The revised model aims to protect and enhance field sizes, which have deteriorated over the past decade and remain under pressure. Maximising field sizes through managing scratching volumes promotes stronger wagering outcomes which ultimately benefits all participants through sustained prizemoney levels and other industry returns.

The new scratching fee structure breakdown:

• Scratching with a rider declared – $274.25 (ex GST)
• Scratching without a rider declared – $100 (ex GST)
• Scratching with a veterinary certificate – $120 (ex GST)
• Scratching with a veterinary certificate & 30-day stand down – Free
• Picnic race scratchings – $10 (ex GST)
• Group & Listed race scratchings – existing percentage of prizemoney as advertised

The current scratching fee structure remains in effect until January 31, 2026.