New initiatives to address scratchings introduced

Racing Queensland is set to unveil multiple initiatives to address the number of scratchings at race meetings across the state. 

From September 1, a progressive acceptors system will be implemented.

This will enable trainers to view the field of horses accepted into any race in which they hold a nomination prior to acceptance deadline, thus providing more information for their decision-making process. 

In addition, the number of emergencies declared for any race will now be capped at five. 

“Competitive field sizes continue to be a primary driver of commercial returns from wagering,” RQ Acting CEO Lachlan Murray said. 

“Large scratching volumes negatively impact wagering levels and as a result, returns to industry. 

“This has been driven through punter uncertainty and reduced confidence in wagering, particularly when early markets are offered.

“In May, we announced TAB meeting optimization measures in racing season 2026/27 as the first measure to grow field sizes and these next steps in a staged approach are aimed at further improving field sizes whilst simultaneously reducing the number of scratchings.”

Average field sizes for TAB races have dropped in consecutive seasons, from 9.6 (2023/24) to 9.56 in 2024/25 and now 9.3 in the recently concluded financial year.

RQ is also exploring the introduction of barriers being assigned at the declaration of weights, to provide even more information for trainers prior to acceptances being finalised. 

This will be a vital tool in assisting trainers to place their horses to its best advantage and ultimately in turn will further reduce scratching numbers.

“Progressive acceptances has been well received in other jurisdictions so we see this as a positive for race meetings in Queensland," Queensland Australian Trainers Association Executive Richard Andrews said.

“Ultimately, trainers must give their horses and owners the best opportunity to perform well, so poor draws will result in scratchings in any given race and rail placements add to this.

"The ATA looks forward on working with RQ on other initiatives including programming, particularly in SEQ, to further enhance field sizes.

"Like with any initiatives or reverting to previous systems, we look forward to seeing how it improves the current situation and will work closely with RQ to analyse the effects of these."