Thoroughbred Horses

The thoroughbred breeding industry in Australia is responsible for generating more than $1.16 billion to the Australian economy and is the second largest in the world. AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Program invests in high-impact RD&E that improves the sustainability, productivity and competitiveness of the Australian thoroughbred industry.

Thoroughbred horse at a racetrack

Latest news and events

Horses running in paddock-Part of the Thoroughbred industry
Thoroughbred Horses

Why we need to lead our horses off the well-trodden path

Soil compaction is quietly limiting pasture productivity and affecting horse health. Thanks to the work of 2022 Nuffield Scholar Adam Williamson, the thoroughbred industry now has practical, evidence-based strategies to address it.

3 min read

Two men smiling in professional portraits, one wearing glasses and a checked shirt, the other in a blue shirt and tie.
THOROUGHBRED HORSES / 20.08.25

New Chair appointed to steer future direction of Thoroughbred Horses Program

To help further drive the Australian Thoroughbred horse industry’s long-term sustainability through targeted research and innovation, AgriFutures Australia has appointed Michael Grieve as Chair and Jonathan D’Arcy as a new member of its Thoroughbred Horses Advisory Panel.

4 min read

Thoroughbred horse grazing in a rural paddock, representing the Australian thoroughbred breeding industry
THOROUGHBRED HORSES / 13.08.25

National research project launched to develop a strategy to stimulate demand for retired Thoroughbreds

Racing Australia, with funding from AgriFutures Australia, is proud to announce a landmark national research initiative to assess demand for retired Thoroughbreds and inform the development of a comprehensive strategy supporting their transition into second careers and long-term homes.

3 min read

THOROUGHBRED HORSES / 27.05.25

Australia’s thoroughbred breeding industry valued at $1.68 billion

The Australian thoroughbred breeding industry, the second largest in the world, delivered a solid economic performance in 2022 – 23, contributing $1.68 billion to the national economy and supporting 9,268 full-time equivalent jobs, according to new independent research released today by Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) and AgriFutures Australia.

3 min read