Cost-of-living pressures will have “integrity ripple effects” across Victoria’s racing industry, putting participants at greater risk of corrupt conduct, the state’s racing integrity commissioner has warned.
Carroll warned the forecast downturn in wagering revenue, reductions in prizemoney and increased competition for corporate and entertainment dollars could lead to bad behaviour within the racing industry and urged racing bodies to respond to the evolving risks. Speaking to this masthead before Melbourne Cup Day, Carroll said the commission was making a concerted effort to speak to as many participants as possible, and that the watchdog was well-placed to respond to issues.
One complaint alleged a racing participant was engaging in inappropriate behaviour, which was investigated by the controlling body. Charges were laid and the participant was found guilty and disqualified. The integrity watchdog said it had tried to engage with the harness racing industry, which had provided “a historically lower source of information and intelligence compared to the thoroughbred and greyhound codes”.