The Queensland racing industry continues to go from strength to strength, with its impact on the state’s economy once again on the rise.
Latest independent economic data delivered by IER – a specialist in the tourism, events and entertainment industries – has once again confirmed the industry’s vital contribution to the Sunshine State’s economy, generating over $2.5 billion per annum in value added contribution in 2024/25.
As a result, the industry’s contribution to the state has increased by nearly $50 million from 2023/24 to FY25.
The industry’s consistent upward trajectory growth and impact on the state’s economy is underpinned by a 104% rise in total value add since FY16, with full-time employment increasing from 9,546 to 13,994 in the same period (+47%).
The thoroughbred code ($1.93 billion) is primarily responsible for the majority of the economic contribution, having increased by 2% since FY24.
The greyhound code ($348.4 million) also recorded a 6% increase on its FY24 contribution, whilst the harness code was responsible for $222.9 million.
Click here to see a full copy of the FY25 Size and Scope Report.
Racing Minister Tim Mander reaffirmed the racing industry’s importance to the state from both an economic and employment standpoint.
“Racing Queensland’s FY25 Size and Scope Report once again shines a light on the sheer size and strength of our racing industry across the State,” Minister Mander said.
“Supporting 14,000 full-time jobs whilst contributing more than $2.5 billion in annual contribution to the State’s economy underpins the vital importance of the racing industry statewide and it’s why we’re implementing reforms from The Next Lap: A plan for the future of Queensland racing.
“The Crisafulli Government remains incredibly proud and steadfast in its support for racing, hosting close to 280 races across 30 meetings a week, while supporting almost 50,000 participants from Goondiwindi to Cooktown and everywhere in between across the three codes.”
Participant numbers have remained steady with 48,682 people presently involved in the Queensland racing industry.
This figure includes employees, trainers, breeders, owners, jockeys, drivers, stablehands and volunteers who have varying levels of engagement in the sport from occasional to full-time.
Click here to see key economic changes from FY16 to FY25.
RQ Chair Matt McGrath said the latest economic data is a testament to the industry’s size and scale across the state.
“Throughout my short time in this position, I have been privileged to witness firsthand the impact this industry has on so many people in Queensland,” Mr McGrath said.
“This latest report highlights the importance of racing from both an economic and social perspective, especially in our regions where more than half of the industry’s economic contribution is realised.
“It speaks to the unbelievable work from those at the coalface of the sport, and their passion and commitment that directly contributes to the growth of racing across each of the three codes.
“There are always industry challenges, and our role is to ensure we build a sustainable model for the long term which will continue to maintain an ever-increasing contribution to the state of Queensland.”
Finally, more than three-quarters of a million patrons attended a race meeting in FY25, with approximately 75% made at racecourses outside of Brisbane.
Detailed summaries for each region can be found below:
- Central Queensland region summary;
- Darling Downs-Maranoa region summary;
- Far North Queensland region summary;
- Gold Coast region summary;
- Ipswich region summary;
- Outback Queensland region summary;
- Mackay region summary;
- Sunshine Coast region summary;
- Townsville region summary; and
- Wide Bay region summary.
Click here to view a summary infographic of the FY25 Size and Scope Report.
