A strategy to increase demand for retired Thoroughbreds in Australia

Summary

Both the Australian Thoroughbred industry and wider community maintain an interest in the wellbeing of Thoroughbred horses before, during and after their racing careers. There is currently a gap in knowledge on the demand for Thoroughbred horses after their racing careers. This project will use statistical analyses and consultation with both industry and the wider horse community to understand the current demand for Thoroughbreds. It will investigate the perceptions participants have of Thoroughbreds to gain an insight into how owning a retired Thoroughbred could be made more attractive to all potential horse owners. In this consultation, current methods for stimulating demand, including private, industry funded, and international programs, will be analysed to identify what is working already, and what new strategies could be introduced. The project team consists of members of the industry regulatory bodies which will analyse confidential data only available within the industry to ensure the most accurate results. The team has collaborated with external experts for transparency and to ensure a broad range of strategies are considered. The outcome will be a national strategy to stimulate demand for retired Thoroughbreds in Australia.

Program

Thoroughbred Horses

Research Organisation

Racing Australia Limited

Objective Summary

The overall objective of this project is to establish a national strategy to stimulate demand for retired Thoroughbred horses. This includes determining the current demand for, and understanding the perceptions of, retired Thoroughbreds, to identify effective methods to increase their rehoming and welfare outcomes.