The Hon. Lachlan Hunter, Shadow Minister for Racing and Gaming (WA), Media Release, 2 February 2026

The Cook Labor Government and the Minister for Racing and Gaming, Paul Papalia, must clearly state whether they support the future of the greyhound racing industry in Western Australia following serious animal welfare incidents at Cannington Park and ongoing uncertainty facing the sector.

Recent race day incidents at Cannington Park, which resulted in multiple serious injuries and the humane euthanasia of two greyhounds, have understandably caused distress across the racing community and the broader public.

Racing WA has acted responsibly by suspending racing and trialling at Cannington Park while a comprehensive review is undertaken. Independent on-track veterinarians and stewards oversee every race meeting, and animal welfare remains the highest priority of the regulator.

Shadow Minister for Racing and Gaming, Mr Lachlan Hunter MP, said the incidents highlight the importance of continued investment, certainty and leadership from Government.

“Animal welfare must always come first, and the community rightly expects the highest standards of care and safety,” Mr Hunter said.

“Racing WA has taken appropriate action, but the reality is that long-term safety outcomes depend on proper funding, modern infrastructure and clear direction from the Cook Labor Government.”

Mr Hunter said the greyhound industry had been left in a state of uncertainty due to Labor’s failure to provide clarity on its long-term vision.

“There has been ongoing discussion about infrastructure improvements, including the development of a straight track to improve safety outcomes, yet there is still no clear funding commitment or timeline from the Cook Labor Government,” he said.

“That uncertainty hurts animal welfare, it hurts participants, and it undermines confidence across the entire racing sector.”

Mr Hunter said WA Labor must stop avoiding the issue and be upfront with industry participants and the community.

“The Minister and the Cook Labor Government must come out clearly and state whether they support the future of the greyhound industry in Western Australia,” he said.

“If they do, they need to back that up with action, certainty and investment. If they don’t, they owe it to participants, workers and regional communities to be honest about that as well.”

“The industry deserves clarity. The animals deserve the safest possible conditions. And the Government must be held accountable for delivering both.