The Strategic Racing Initiatives program supports the three racing codes to implement strategic projects which support the long-term growth and viability of the Victorian racing industry.
A sustainable racing industry needs strategic projects and initiatives to provide high quality training and racing in Victoria. Supporting projects which strategically improve welfare, integrity, breeding and sustainability for the racing industry is a priority.
Program objectives and outcomes
The program will support the implementation of strategic projects for the benefit of racing across Victoria.
The VRIF Strategic Racing Initiatives program objectives are to:
- support appropriate breeding programs across the three racing codes
- support the welfare of racing animals and the wellbeing of jockeys, trainers, drivers, and participants
- support projects that underpin the sustainable growth and viability of the racing industry
- support projects which are integral to the strategic plans of the three racing codes
- support projects which uphold and improve the integrity of racing in Victoria.
The intended outcomes of this program are:
- improved breeding and welfare programs
- support for strategic and integrity projects
- support for the ongoing viability of racing in Victoria.
Funding
Grants will be provided on a cash co-contribution basis of up to 50 per cent of the total eligible budget expenditure.
Program dates
This is an open program with no specific funding rounds. It is recommended that applications are submitted at least 3 months prior to the expected commencement date of the project.
Eligible applicants
The following organisations are eligible to apply for a Strategic Racing Initiative grant:
- Racing Victoria Limited
- Country Racing Victoria
- Harness Racing Victoria
- Greyhound Racing Victoria
- Racing clubs licensed under section 24A of the Racing Act 1958. This includes HRV Management Limited (trading as Tabcorp Park) and racing clubs registered as part of the Wimmera Racing Club
- Racing clubs licensed by Racing Victoria Limited as a picnic racing club
- Racing clubs licensed by Harness Racing Victoria as a graduation club.
The following organisations are eligible to apply for funding under the VRIF with written support from the relevant controlling body:
- associated racing industry bodies and stakeholders, for example the Victorian Jockeys’ Association, Australian Trainers’ Association (Victorian Branch)
- Racing Analytical Services Limited
- Association of Victorian Country Harness Racing Clubs.
Eligible expenditure
A full listing of eligible and ineligible project expenditure is provided within the program guidelines.
Applicants must read the program guidelines before submitting an application.
Program area and assistance
For more information about the Victorian Racing Industry Fund and the Major Racing Events Fund please contact the Office of Racing at vrif@justice.vic.gov.au
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