Racing Safety Development Fund

The Racing Safety Development Fund makes grants for projects that help improve the safety of riders, spectators, officials and others involved in racing at racecourses, and improve the health and safety of animals at racecourses. A fund of $1 million is available for grants each year, overseen by the Minister for Racing. Grants are made for projects that demonstrate clear safety benefits and contribute to improving the quality of facilities at racecourses. The Fund supports capital projects such as infrastructure improvements, equipment purchases, and facility upgrades that directly enhance safety outcomes. Eligible organizations must be registered racing clubs or their representative bodies, and must demonstrate proper governance structures and the ability to contribute at least 50% of project costs. Grant decisions are made by an industry working group consisting of an independent chairperson appointed by the Minister for Racing and representatives from each of the three New Zealand racing code bodies.