The AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Program invests in research, development and extension (RD&E) that improves the sustainability, productivity and competitiveness of the Australian thoroughbred industry. The RD&E Plan guides investment across four priority areas to deliver RD&E outcomes to benefit the industry.
The Australian thoroughbred breeding industry is mostly based in rural and regional Australia. Thoroughbred breeding provides the horses that compete in thoroughbred racing throughout Australia. Additionally, Australia is a strong exporter of thoroughbred racehorses, yearlings and breeding stock. Thoroughbred horses are also important contributors to broader society outside of breeding and racing. A substantial proportion of the Australian population participates, in some form, in horse riding or other equestrian activities.
The AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Program RD&E Plan (2022-2027) (the Plan) has been developed following a comprehensive consultation process. The Plan focuses on four priorities covering horse and human welfare, environmental sustainability, breeding, extension and career pathways, the industry’s economic contribution, and disease management.
Program RD&E Plans are a key part of implementing AgriFutures Australia’s broader RD&E strategies, and are the basis on which the organisation invests on behalf of industries. These Plans identify RD&E priorities and the planned outcomes for each industry, and each has an appropriate balance of productivity and sustainability RD&E priorities.