New Local Rules for 2022
NEW LOCAL RULES
The new Local Rules 2022 are now in effect.
They are read in conjunction with the current Greyhounds Australasia Rules. The new local rules will also be compatible with the new Greyhounds Australasia Rules to become effective later this year.
Key Elements
The old Local Regulatory Rules are now Schedule 1 of the new local rules. Whilst there have been some updates to them, most of the old LRs are unchanged. The rule numbers, from the old LRs, are the same. You do not need to learn new rule numbers. The old designation “LR” for each local rule is now “L”, per GA guidelines.
The old Coursing Rules (CRs) have been moved into Schedule 1 of the local rules, but the old coursing rule (CR) number is next to the new “L” rule to make finding the rules easier.
Key Changes
Rule L5 – new general offence of contravene requirement
Schedule 1 L28A – confirming greyhounds must be kept by registered persons and on registered premises
Schedule 1 L28B – new rules dealing with greyhounds of a deceased estate
Schedule 1 L29 – amended identification and location of inactive greyhounds
Schedule 1 L30 – confirming notices of whelping must include all pups (alive or deceased)
Schedule 1 L37A – new, specific offence of being disorderly on a racecourse or premises of a club
Schedule 1 L77 – confirming power of GRSA to require further details about matters relating to greyhound racing
Schedule 1 L78A – new facilitation of proof provisions to make IHP hearings more efficient
Schedule 1 L79A – new guiding principles to be considered on penalty
Schedule 1 L85 – confirming reasonable time for disqualified person to transfer greyhound
Schedule 1 L114 – revised rehoming obligations (including notice of intention to euthanise that is presently part of the Animal Welfare Policy 2021)
Schedule 1 L114A – new, serious offence of ill treatment of greyhound
Schedule 1 L114B – new offence of threaten detriment to greyhound
The new offences have been available to GRSA under other provisions in the Greyhounds Australasia Rules and LRs; however, these new rules make it clear what the offence is and what GRSA’s expectations are.
New Procedures
Schedule 2 of the local rules establishes Penalty Notices for on-the-spot fines for breaches of some rules. Penalty notices only levy fines up to $499.00. Any serious offences, or an offence where there is a chance that registration will be affected, will still be handled by an inquiry. Like traffic expiation notices, you can dispute a penalty notice, and this will be heard by an inquiry.
Schedule 3 of the local rules codifies a fit and proper person test for registration, to provide certainty so applicants know what the requirements are for licencing.
Schedule 4 of the local rules provides a right of review process for various decisions by GRSA that might affect you. This Schedule will be operational soon, once the procedure is established and will apply to licencing decisions, some greyhound penalties, and other exercises of powers. Disputes for offences remain with the IHP/Stewards and Racing Appeals Tribunal.
The new local rules can be found at - Local Rules GRSA effective 31 Jan 2022 v.1.0.pdf (thedogs.com.au)