An independent analysis by the Victorian Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO) revealed that jumps racing in Victoria cost taxpayers $1.8 million more than it generated in gambling revenue in 2024-25, a significant increase from the previous year’s $300,000 subsidy. This net subsidy results from the state government providing $2.8 million in funding while only receiving about $900,000 in gambling taxes and wagering fees from the sport. Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell, who commissioned the report, renewed calls to ban jumps racing, citing animal cruelty and financial inefficiency, especially amid a cost-of-living crisis. The sport has faced criticism following multiple horse fatalities in recent years, despite Racing Victoria implementing safety measures and continuing jumps racing due to its cultural and economic importance, particularly in regional events like the Warrnambool May Carnival.
Racing Victoria defends jumps racing, highlighting its support for over 111,000 jobs and generating $3.4 billion in economic activity, with the Warrnambool May Carnival alone contributing nearly $15 million annually to the local economy. The organization has introduced a Jumps Taskforce to monitor safety and economic impacts, reporting a decline in fatalities after 2024 changes. However, critics remain concerned about ongoing horse deaths and the lack of transparency, as some historical review reports were removed from public access. The government has stated that decisions on jumps racing’s future rest with Racing Victoria, emphasizing the sport’s role in supporting regional jobs and tourism.
