In a move to bolster participant well-being and workplace safety, Racing Victoria (RV) is set to offer relief to Victorian trainers through a WorkCover subsidy.
Beginning in February 2024, RV will subsidize 30% of any rise in WorkCover costs for trainers over the next two years.
This initiative aims to assist trainers affected by escalating premiums and includes the creation of a specialized service to manage workplace claims efficiently.
To fund these programs, a one percent levy on prizemoney will be imposed for two years, resulting in a four percent total levy on prizemoney, alongside existing horse welfare (two percent) and jockey welfare (one percent) levies.
RV’s CEO, Andrew Jones, emphasized the critical role these initiatives play in supporting industry sustainability, aligning with the commitment to participant well-being and equine welfare.
The plan includes Safe & Respectful Workplace education, a renewed Stableline service, and emergency funding support for stable staff in serious racing-related incidents.
The subsidy scheme is a welcomed measure, receiving positive feedback from industry stakeholders, including ATA president Robbie Griffiths.
