QOTT Grants Program recipients announced

The Queensland Off-The-Track Program has unveiled the 14 successful applicants to benefit from its 2025 QOTT Grants Program.

As part of the fourth round of the Grants Program, close to $200,000 has been awarded to a range of not-for-profit organisations, charities and QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers that provide equine retraining services, or second careers for retired racehorses – including as therapy horses.

The funding also benefits retired racehorses that have previously transitioned from the racing industry into the domestic horse community.

The successful applicants span across two grant initiatives. They are:

• QOTT Acknowledged Retrainer Expansion Grants – 10 grants totalling $153,150; and
• QOTT Therapy Horse Grants – four grants totalling $36,500.

No applications were received for the QOTT Veterinary and Rehabilitation Grant.

Racing Minister Tim Mander said that the QOTT Grants Program is vital for increasing the post-racing opportunities available for retired racehorses.

“The Crisafulli Government is committed to improving the welfare outcomes for retired racehorses in Queensland,” Minister Mander said.

“The QOTT Grants Program is an important step to expanding aftercare initiatives available to retired racehorses at every stage of life.”

“I congratulate the recipients of this year’s grants and look forward to them making a significant impact to the wellbeing of retired racehorses.”

The QOTT Grants Program aims to support vulnerable horses by assisting not-for-profit organisations and charities who provide equine rehabilitation and retraining services for retired racehorses that are no longer part of the racing industry, but require assistance at later stages of their lives.

Support is also provided to equine-assisted therapy organisations that utilise retrained retired racehorses as part of their programs.

Additionally, QOTT’s network of Acknowledged Retrainers across the state are supported to expand their operations or upgrade their facilities, with the objective to grow their capacity to take on more retired racehorses.

During the opening three rounds of the QOTT Grants Program, more than $500,000 has been distributed to various groups across the state.

QOTT Chair Dr Christine Johnson said that it was pleasing to once again receive a number of high quality applications.

"The QOTT Therapy Horse Grant enables us to support equine operators across Queensland who provide retired racehorses with second careers as therapy horses,” Dr Johnson said.  

“This initiative not only provides a meaningful post-racing pathway for these horses but also highlights the vital role equine therapy plays within our communities.

"Furthermore, supporting our Acknowledged Retrainers to increase their capacity not only strengthens Queensland’s overall aftercare network, but also ensures its long-term sustainability. 

"QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers are one of the many established pathways for rehoming racehorses in Queensland, and further complement the work of breeders, owners, and trainers who directly transition their horses into rewarding second careers after racing.

“Many retrainers rely on horse sales and supplementary employment to maintain and grow their operations. Providing targeted support that allows them to expand their operations ensures their continued ability to transition more retired racehorses successfully."

The QOTT Program was established to support a high-quality first transition for thoroughbred and standardbred horses, bred for the racing industry and domiciled in Queensland at the time of their retirement from racing or breeding activities.

The Grants Program is one of nine major initiatives introduced by QOTT over the past four years to support racehorse aftercare in Queensland.

Other initiatives include the Subsidised Lessons Program, Acknowledged Retrainers Program, Event Sponsorship Program, Nutrition Education Hub, Safety Net Partnership with Save A Horse Australia, Premium Event Partnerships, QOTT Education Program, and QOTT Clubhouse.

Click here for more information on the 2025 QOTT Grants Program recipients.

Click here for more information on the QOTT Program.