Harness Racing’s Ongoing Commitment to Equine Welfare
About HRA
Harness Racing Australia (HRA), established in 1974 as the Australian Harness Racing Council and renamed in 2008, is the national governing body for harness racing.
It coordinates the six State Controlling Bodies and six Principal Clubs to ensure uniform rules, licensing, horse registration, and enforcement of suspensions or disqualifications. HRA also represents Australia internationally, including co-managing the Australasian Inter Dominion series with Harness Racing New Zealand. Its core role is to promote the industry and support its members in carrying out their powers and obligations.
Equine Welfare - There is no finish line
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Industry Commitment
At Harness Racing Australia (HRA), the health, welfare and traceability of Standardbred horses is central to everything we do. We believe that cruel, abusive, or inhumane treatment of any horse is unacceptable—by anyone, anywhere.
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Policies & Rules
Harness Racing Australia has a comprehensive and robust governance system which designs, manages and regulates policies and rules.
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The Standardbred
Like the Thoroughbred, the Standardbred is bred for speed rather than appearance, resulting in wide variation in its look and build.
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Horse Identification
Australian Standardbreds have traditionally been identified by a unique alpha-angle freeze brand placed on the neck. From September 2017, microchipping was introduced as an additional form of identification, and the freeze brand has since been progressively phased out.
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Whip Use
“Community expectations of animal welfare continue to evolve at a rapid rate - particularly with regards to racing animals.”
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Race Injury & Incident Reports
Raceday injury and incident reports record vet details for every horse examined at the track on raceday.
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Drug Control
Ensuring a level playing field is essential for the well-being of our participants and the image of our racing among both punters and the broader community.
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Life After Racing
There are many and varied opportunities available to Standardbreds in their life away from the race track.
Contact Us
Harness Racing Australia is committed to continuous improvement in equine welfare in the harness racing industry in Australia.
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!