Animal welfare groups are intensifying their campaign to outlaw greyhound racing in South Australia following a dramatic increase in canine injuries during races, according to newly released data.
Injury Rates Soar
Figures obtained by the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds reveal that injuries among racing greyhounds have surged by 30% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year. The data, sourced from the Greyhound Welfare Authority, shows that 142 dogs were injured between January and March, with 12 requiring euthanasia.
Worst-Hit Tracks
The highest number of injuries occurred at Angle Park, where 58 dogs were hurt, followed by Gawler with 34 and Murray Bridge with 29. Fractures, muscle tears, and spinal injuries were the most common ailments reported.
“These numbers are heartbreaking and completely preventable,” said Sarah Thompson, spokesperson for the coalition. “Every injury represents a dog that has suffered needlessly for the sake of gambling revenue.”
Political Response
The renewed push for a ban has gained traction among crossbench MPs, with Greens MLC Robert Simms announcing plans to introduce a private member’s bill to phase out the industry by 2028. “The community has had enough of this cruel sport,” Simms said. “We have a moral obligation to protect these animals.”
However, the state’s Labor government has resisted calls for an outright ban, instead advocating for stricter safety regulations. Racing Minister Katrine Hildyard stated that the industry contributes $200 million annually to the state’s economy and supports 3,000 jobs.
“We are committed to improving welfare standards without destroying livelihoods,” Hildyard said. “A knee-jerk ban would only drive the industry underground.”
Industry Defends Practices
Greyhound Racing SA CEO Matthew Smith defended the sport, arguing that injury rates have actually decreased over the past decade due to better track surfaces and veterinary care. “We take animal welfare extremely seriously,” Smith said. “The recent spike is concerning, but we are investigating its causes and will implement corrective measures.”
The industry has pointed to a 2019 independent review that found no evidence of systemic cruelty, though critics argue that the review was flawed and outdated.
Public Opinion Shifts
A poll conducted by the Australia Institute in April found that 62% of South Australians now support a ban on greyhound racing, up from 54% in 2022. The shift is attributed to increased awareness of animal welfare issues and high-profile incidents of dogs being injured or killed.
“The public is no longer willing to turn a blind eye,” Thompson said. “We will continue to pressure the government until this barbaric industry is shut down.”
The debate is expected to intensify in the lead-up to the state election in March 2027, with animal welfare emerging as a key battleground issue.
