QTOA Chairman's Report - June 2026

Dear Members, 

The QTOA Committee has recently been focused on two important issues relating to racehorse ownership in Queensland - the 1% WorkCover levy on prizemoney and the review of the ASIC regulatory framework governing racehorse syndications.

While these matters relate to different areas of the industry, both have direct implications for owners and highlight the importance of strong representation and advocacy on behalf of our membership.

At the forefront of our recent discussions with industry stakeholders including Racing Queensland and the Australian Trainers Association has been the 1% WorkCover levy on prizemoney which was introduced three years ago to assist trainers with rising workcover premiums and costs.

The QTOA has sought further clarification around the levy and its long-term implications, while also ensuring the concerns of owners are clearly communicated to industry stakeholders.

Racing Queensland has been doing some positive work in this area which has greatly reduced both the number of workcover claims and length of claims. This has translated into a 2.6% reduction in the WorkCover premium which is the first time the premium has decreased over the past decade.

Whilst this is an encouraging outcome, the QTOA has reinforced the need for the industry to find a longterm solution to the issue outside of the 1% levy on prizemoney - which the Racing Queensland board has recently approved for a further 12 months until June 30, 2027.

Queensland owners already contribute significantly to the funding of the industry through training fees and it is important that any additional deductions from prizemoney are carefully considered and transparently communicated.

The Committee has also recently provided feedback as part of the industry's consultation process regarding the ASIC Corporations (Horse Schemes) Instrument, which governs racehorse syndications in Australia and is due for review later this year.

Our submission focused on the need for a more practical and proportionate framework that recognises the unique nature of racehorse ownership. While consumer protections remain important, the current regulatory model can create unnecessary compliance burdens and costs that ultimately flow through to owners.

The QTOA supports reforms that maintain appropriate safeguards while reducing red tape and encouraging greater participation in racehorse ownership.

The review presents an important opportunity for industry stakeholders to work collaboratively with regulators to ensure the framework remains fit for purpose and supports the long-term growth of ownership across the country.

As always, the QTOA remains committed to advocating on behalf of owners and ensuring your voice is heard on the issues that matter most. We thank members for their ongoing support and encourage you to continue sharing your feedback with the Committee as these important discussions progress.

Ben Mannion

QTOA Chairman

Queensland Thoroughbred Owners Association

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