A new layer of protection for greyhound racing events commences today with amendments to the Racing Act 1958 coming into force.
The new provisions resemble the protections afforded to major sporting events and are aimed at protecting our participants and greyhounds as well as at reducing the risks of disruptive behaviour marring our events.
It is now an offence for unauthorised persons to enter the restricted areas of greyhound racetracks during an event, which includes not only the racing surface but also kennelling, parading and exercise yards.
Other new offences focus on deterring dangerous behaviour such as disrupting the meeting, throwing projectiles and climbing fences into restricted areas.
New enforcement provisions give authorised persons specific powers to intervene, eject wrong doers from the venue, issue fines and, in serious cases, seek court orders banning the person from attending any Victorian racetrack across all codes.