Racing Queensland has extended its insurance levy targeting thoroughbred racing, committing to continue a scheme that has helped cushion trainers from the mounting cost of insurance premiums.
Initially introduced on a trial basis from January 1, 2024, the levy applies a 1% charge on prize money for all TAB thoroughbred races in the state. The funding raised is channelled into subsidising WorkCover premiums and enhancing safety practices for licensed Queensland trainers.
Following a promising take-up and positive feedback across the sector, the program will be extended for a further 12 months beyond its initial mid-2025 end date. Racing Queensland has confirmed it will now assess the levy’s performance annually to determine whether it should be continued or adjusted.
Under the scheme, eligible trainers may receive reimbursements of up to 30% of their total WorkCover premium, representing around 80% of the funds collected through the levy. The balance supports broader initiatives including public liability insurance subsidies, the development of tailored health and safety training materials, and structured claims management assistance.
Racing Queensland continues to fund public liability cover for trainers via this mechanism, allocating approximately 10% of the levy pool toward that purpose.
Trainer Jack Bruce, who has benefited from the program, said the support could not come at a better time for the industry.
“It’s a great initiative—the subsidy provides real relief in an area that is increasingly challenging for trainers to manage,” Bruce said. “It’s a big win for both our business and the industry overall.”
Bruce noted the added pressure on stables navigating workplace risks unique to equine environments, saying any assistance that helps mitigate injury, enhance outcomes, or expedite return-to-work efforts was “hugely valuable.”
One of the more notable outcomes of the levy has been the creation of new safety resources, developed in partnership with an external workplace health and safety provider. These tools are designed specifically for the thoroughbred racing sector and aim to reduce injury rates, improve compliance, and support proactive claims management.
To access the 2025 subsidy, trainers must maintain an active WorkCover policy covering the 12-month period from July 1, 2024, submit a signed Letter of Authority to Racing Queensland, and meet a series of reporting and WHS training requirements. These include logging workplace incidents, completing induction modules, and ensuring up-to-date client codes are on file for payments to be processed correctly.
Reimbursements are set to be paid by direct deposit before October 2025, based on Racing Queensland’s assessment of each trainer’s policy data. Those who participated in the 2024 program and provided valid authorisation will automatically be reassessed for the next period. New entrants or trainers unsure of their eligibility are encouraged to contact Racing Queensland or re-submit the necessary documentation.
While the scheme remains in a trial phase, its popularity has grown significantly. Racing Queensland says it will continue monitoring the levy’s effectiveness, not only in providing financial relief but in improving the overall risk profile of the industry.
With pressure mounting on small and mid-sized stables to absorb rising insurance and compliance costs, the levy’s extension offers some stability in what remains a challenging underwriting environment. For the insurance industry, it also signals a proactive approach to risk mitigation and loss control in a sector often associated with high workplace injury rates and complex claims.
