The NSW Greyhound Welfare Code of Practice came into effect on 1 January 2021, and was updated 1 January 2026.
The Code applies to all participants in the NSW greyhound racing industry and greyhounds kept by them, regardless of whether the greyhound is kept for the purpose of racing.
It demonstrates the NSW greyhound racing industry’s commitment to improving the welfare of greyhounds across the state.
The Code also it signals to the broader community the collective resolve of the NSW greyhound racing industry to establish and maintain the highest standards of welfare and care in Australia.
Objectives of the code
- Protect the welfare and promote the wellbeing of greyhounds kept by greyhound racing industry participants in NSW.
- Provide a clear set of standards that are recognised and accepted the industry and its participants.
Contents of the code
- Nutrition and Hydration
- Health and Wellbeing
- Greyhound Breeding
- Housing and Environment
- Transporting Greyhounds
- Exercise, Socialisation and Enrichment
- Training, Trialling and Racing
- Rehoming Greyhounds as Companion Animals
Download or view the Code of Practice below
Download or view the Exercise Socialisation and Enrichment Plan below.
Connecting with the Code
To help enhance understanding and awareness of the NSW Greyhound Code of Practice, the Commission has a range of resources for greyhound racing industry participants.
We have developed a series of slides which highlight each part of the Code, presenting the standards in a simple and visually appealing fashion.
They can be paused, rewound and replayed so the standards can be easily reviewed as required.
You can find them by clicking below
In addition, the Commission has published Industry Practice Guides which offer participants practical advice and guidance.
They outline the Code’s standards and provide simple, actionable steps to meet those obligations.
As these are a key educational resource, the Commission has also created Industry Practice Guide slides to broaden awareness.
Spotlight on Industry Practice Guides
Code Corner
The Code of Practice demonstrates the commitment of the NSW greyhound racing industry to ensure greyhound welfare lies at the very heart of the sport.
Each part of the Code provides an objective to enhance greyhound welfare – its is something that Commission staff and participants alike are passionate about.
GWIC vet Aaron Lewis (Part 3.6: Storage, administration and treatment records)
Owner-trainer Sandra Spratt (Part 7: Exercise, Socialisation and Enrichment)
Trainer Sonia Kempshall (Part 7: Exercise, Socialisation and Enrichment)
GWIC vet Kasia Hunter (Part 8: Training, Trialling and Racing)