Applications for 2025 QOTT Grants Program open

Applications for the 2025 Queensland Off-The-Track Grants Program are now open.

With up to $350,000 on offer across three initiatives, the QOTT Grants Program provides support to not-for-profit organisations, charities and QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers that provide equine retraining or rehabilitation services, or second careers for retired racehorses, including as therapy horses.

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

A grant is also available to support equine-assisted therapy organisations that use retrained retired racehorses as part of their programs. 

Racing Minister Tim Mander said the QOTT Grants Program supports the growth of equine operators, whilst improving outcomes for retired racehorses in Queensland.

“The Crisafulli Government is committed to working collaboratively with stakeholders to further the lifelong care and welfare of racing animals,” Minister Mander said. 

“The QOTT Grants Program is designed to provide vital support to grassroots community organisations that make a significant impact on the wellbeing of retired racehorses.”

A grant for QOTT’s network of Acknowledged Retrainers will again play a critical role in supporting retired racehorses transitioning to new homes, whilst enhancing the quality of the state’s Acknowledged Retrainer network.

Funding can be used by QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers for a variety of resourcing and infrastructure projects to help them expand their operations or upgrade their facilities, with the objective to grow their capacity to take on more retired racehorses.

In 2024, the third round of grant funding supported nine successful recipients by contributing $123,600 towards maximising aftercare outcomes – in addition to a further $380,000 in funding awarded under the previous two rounds.

Racing Queensland’s Senior Animal Care Manager Kim Duffy said the QOTT Program is delighted to have the opportunity to work with organisations who act as a safety net for retired racehorses, and those who establish positive partnerships between retired racehorses and our Queensland communities via equine-assisted therapy.

“The aim of QOTT’s financial support is to empower not-for-profit organisations and charities to provide exceptional care for retired racehorses,” Ms Duffy said. 

“These grants not only financially support these groups, but is also an acknowledgement of the wonderful work they do for retired racehorses that become vulnerable at later stages of their lives.

“Additionally, funding provided by QOTT helps equine therapy providers carry out their important work to support local community groups and individuals who rely on equine-assisted therapy.

“It is also vital that we continue to support our statewide network of Acknowledged Retrainers who play a pivotal role in transitioning retired racehorses into their post-racing lives.”

The QOTT Grants Program complements the various post-racing initiatives introduced by QOTT over the past four years to support racehorse aftercare in Queensland.

These 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, QOTT Clubhouse and the New OTT Owner Welcome Pack.

Applications for the QOTT Grants Program close at 5pm Friday, May 30, 2025.

Click here for more information on the QOTT Grants Program, including guidelines and application criteria.