RVL to study Health and Welfare of Industry participants

Racing Victoria Limited (RVL) has enlisted Victoria University to conduct a study into the health and welfare of trainers and stable employees within the Victorian racing industry.

The study, which commences today, is to be conducted by Senior Researchers from Victoria University's Centre for Ageing, Rehabilitation, Exercise and Sport, Dr Harriet Speed and Associate Professor Mark Anderson.

The research aims to provide a detailed account of the working lives of Victorian trainers and stable employees and will identify how being involved in the racing industry affects their life. Information is to be sourced from:

Consultation with the Australian Trainers' Association, Australian Workers' Union and the Office of Gaming and Racing to discuss topics including working conditions and wages, health and safety, employment benefits, education and training and other support services.

A survey of stable employees seeking their opinions on issues relating to their place of employment, financial status, education and training, health, social, family and industry perceptions.

A survey questionnaire issued to all licensed trainers, asking a variety of questions covering all aspects of their business and their industry experiences.

The Bracks Government is contributing $25,000 towards the cost of the project. The Government has acknowledged the importance of Victoria's racing industry through its recent commitment of $18.6 million over the next two years to establish a Racing Industry Development Program to support capital works at country racing venues and industry development projects such as the trainers and stable employees study.

Minister for Racing John Pandazopoulos said the study will be of significant benefit to the Victorian racing industry.

"Victorian racing is a $2 billion industry and it is important to make sure we look after all its workers. Some of the industry's key staff are unsung contributors to the heath of Victorian racing," Mr Pandazopoulos said.

"This study will build on our previous work to improve conditions for jockeys and their families and we are looking at ways to improve the racing industry and Victorian workplaces. This study into lifting the working conditions and welfare of other participants in the racing industry and has our full support.

"All participants play a vital role in the success of the Victorian racing industry and the Bracks Government is happy to be looking out for their welfare.''

Australian Trainers' Association (ATA) Chief Executive John Alducci welcomed the announcement.

"The ATA welcomes the study into trainers' welfare and health issues. These issues have been of major concern to the ATA, particularly with the challenging, seven days a week, high-cost racing environment that trainers are confronted with", he said.

"Like other participant groups, trainers are alsofaced with many issues which affect their health and welfare, safety and financial viability. This research study is the result of a very productive process of dialogue on the issue between the ATA and RVL and we look forward to some very positive outcomes", he said

Australian Workers' Union National Secretary Bill Shorten said the study would provide a better understanding of the people that occupy these roles.

"There are approximately 1,200 thoroughbred trainers and 3,000 licensed stable employees in Victoria and apart from basic demographic details very little is known of the personal characteristics of these people,'' Mr Shorten said.

"Even less is known of the ways in which these industry participants cope with the day-to-day demands of their jobs and the impact that it has on their personal health and welfare and this study is a good way to address that.''

"We've been concerned about the deal stable employees have got in the past and we think this is a good start to a better deal for stable employees."

The Victoria University research team also carried out the widely acclaimed 2001 study into the welfare of jockeys. That study resulted in the introduction of wide ranging reforms to support services for the jockey profession.

RVL

• More: More horse racing news
• Race Betting: Place a bet with IASbet