26.10.09: Racing Industry Gets Government Skills Boost

The Victorian Government, along with the Victorian Racing Industry have provided $450,000 to help train thoroughbred industry workers and trainees.

The funding, including $400,000 from Racing Victoria Limited (RVL) and nearly $50,000 from the Government, will increase workplace traineeships from 100 in 2007 to 300 in 2010.

Funds will also provide formal training for more than 3600 existing industry workers over a two year period.

Skills and Workforce Participation Minister Jacinta Allan said Racing Victoria Limited would train existing staff and boost trainee numbers to enhance the skills, culture, safety and reputation of the industry.

Racing Victoria Limited will team with the University of Ballarat (TAFE studies) to train existing pre-trainers, racing managers, trainers' assistants, stable hands, picnic jockeys, rider agents and float drivers.

Deputy Premier and Racing Minister Rob Hulls also welcomed RVL's commitment to skills training and said it would further enhance the reputation of Victoria’s racing industry.

In 2007 the Victorian Government also contributed funds to the racing industry with a $500,000 grant implementing the StableSafe program.