Training Assistance Fund activated for racing participants

Racing Queensland is set to provide $1 million in flood relief through the Training Assistance Fund across the state.

It’s estimated participants located within more than 50 Local Government Areas will face additional costs including transport, food, forage and bedding for animals as a result of floods throughout the state.

The fund will provide an opening round of payments to eligible trainers of $500 or $1,000 depending on their respective activity levels. 

Minister for Racing Tim Mander said his thoughts went out to those in the industry whose livelihoods have been impacted by the recent floods across Queensland.

“Queensland racing participants are renowned for their resilience but this has been a particularly tough time and we want you to know there is help available,” Minister Mander said. 

“I encourage all eligible stakeholders to apply for Training Assistance Fund relief. 

“I also encourage impacted race clubs to apply for the Crisafulli Government’s Sport and Recreation Disaster Recovery Program (SRDRP), which offers grants of up to $5,000 for eligible organisations to assist with clean-up efforts.”

As per the 2022 SEQ floods, Racing Queensland will oversee and administer the fund to ensure that the pressure is alleviated on affected participants as quickly as possible.

To be eligible, trainers must be licensed Queensland, have been impacted on or after December 1, 2025, and meet either of the following criteria:

• Reside/stable their horses in one of the LGAs listed in the table below; or
• If outside the LGAs listed, demonstrate an impact on their racing activity as a result of the floods.

“The resilience of the Queensland racing industry – particularly in the Central and North West – has been tested during recent flooding events,” RQ Acting CEO Lachlan Murray said.

“We’re mindful that the weeks and months may be difficult for many of our participants and that includes the prospect of financial and emotional hardship. 

“The activation of the Training Assistance Fund will ensure there is immediate financial relief for those who need it, with the welfare of our animals and participants the number one priority.”

RQ is also working with clubs and the Queensland Racing Integrity Commission to ensure normal racing operations are restored as soon as possible with races rescheduled or relocated where possible.

Trainers unable to apply online are encouraged to call Racing Queensland on 07 3869 9777 to make an application.

Click here for further information on the RQ Training Assistance Fund. 

Click here for further information on the Sport & Recreation Disaster Recovery Program funding.

Local Government Areas*

*This list has been sourced from SRDRP funding locations on the Queensland Government website.