What’s happening?
Queensland’s racing industry continues its strong economic run, now contributing nearly $2.5 billion annually to the state’s economy — with $81.5 million of that directly impacting Central Queensland.
This is according to the latest Size and Scope Report 2023/24 prepared by IER, which shows the industry grew by $50 million in the past year alone.
Employment remains robust, with the industry sustaining 14,472 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs statewide, and 537 FTE jobs in Central Queensland.
Why it matters?
The racing sector is a vital contributor to Queensland’s economy and regional life — supporting jobs, communities and local businesses.
Racing Minister Tim Mander said: “The racing industry continues to be a vital contributor to Queensland, headlined by its near $2.5 billion annual contribution to the state’s economy, whilst continuing to support close to 14,500 full-time jobs.”
The Crisafulli Government is currently conducting its most significant review of racing in decades to ensure a sustainable future across all three codes.
Minister Mander added: “We are currently undertaking the most significant Racing Review in decades encompassing all three codes. The focus of this review is ensuring a vibrant, sustainable future for the sector. I am looking forward to receiving the Review and its recommendations later this year.”
Local Impact
In Central Queensland, the racing industry’s contribution spans the thoroughbred, harness and greyhound sectors:
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Thoroughbred racing: $67.7 million
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Harness racing: $1.8 million
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Greyhound racing: $12.1 million
A total of 2,891 roles are occupied in the region’s racing industry, including breeders, owners, trainers, club staff, employees and volunteers — nearly 80% of these in regional communities.
RQ Chair Steve Wilson AM highlighted this community connection: “Racing runs through the veins of so many Queenslanders, and the sheer size and scale of our industry remains remarkable.
It’s a significant achievement that, despite the ongoing challenges, the industry has maintained a continued rise in value added contribution, with more than half directly benefiting regional economies.”
By the Numbers
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$2.5 billion annual economic contribution across Queensland.
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$81.5 million contribution in Central Queensland.
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14,472 FTE jobs statewide; 537 FTE jobs in Central Queensland.
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49,248 roles occupied in the industry, nearly 80% regional.
Zoom In
Central Queensland’s breeding and training sector is a critical player:
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60 breeders supported by 65 staff and 64 volunteers.
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78 registered breeders producing 120 foals/pups.
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1,079 racing animals in training
Volunteerism remains a backbone of the sector. Programs like the Cheer A Volunteer initiative ensure those behind the scenes — like those at Gladstone Turf Club, which recently benefited from Brisbane Racing Club’s donation — receive due recognition.
Zoom Out
Queensland hosts nearly 32 race meetings weekly, attracting over 810,600 attendees annually — 73% of whom attend regional event. Racing also fuels other industries — veterinary, tourism, transport, feed and more — with flow-on benefits for local economies.
Queensland’s breeding industry alone generated $141.7 million in spending last year, with key regional hubs like the Central Queensland and Darling Downs–Maranoa playing strong roles.
What to look for next?
Later this year, Minister Mander will receive findings from the current Racing Review. The review aims to chart a course for a vibrant and sustainable future across Queensland’s racing landscape — from Birdsville to Cooktown and everywhere in between.
As the state’s racing sector evolves, Central Queensland is poised to remain a major regional hub — ensuring jobs, industry resilience and local pride continue to grow.
