Drake Inquiry on GRNSW Gains Extension, Expands to Financial Oversight

The Drake Inquiry, established to research Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW), has obtained an extension for its deadline, now set for April 30, 2025. Initially anticipated to conclude by mid-December of this yr, the necessity for a radical examination of a excessive quantity of submissions and complicated points has led to this postponement. Racing Minister David Harris emphasised that this extension ensures that Appearing Commissioner, the Honorable Lea Drake, is supplied with ample time and assets to delve deeply into the intensive info offered, together with testimonies from extra witnesses.

The inquiry’s scope broadened to incorporate monetary oversight:

Additional amplifying the inquiry’s depth, Minister Harris has permitted an enlargement of the phrases of reference on the behest of Ms. Drake. This enlargement permits the inquiry to intensively look at GRNSW’s monetary administration practices. The timing is vital as GRNSW is predicted to report a big monetary loss in its 2023/24 annual report quickly to be tabled in parliament. As The Greyhound Recorder studies, the revised phrases of reference mandate the Appearing Commissioner to “inquire into, report on, and make findings and proposals in relation to GRNSW processes and administration, together with monetary administration, procurement and recruitment practices, and considerations relating to any alleged or recognized conflicts of curiosity and the administration of conflicts of curiosity.”

Along with adjusting the inquiry’s timeline and focus, Minister Harris has prolonged the phrases of the GRNSW board members by 9 months. This determination goals to take care of stability inside GRNSW because the inquiry progresses. “I contemplate it essential that, so far as potential, there may be stability for GRNSW and the trade whereas the Appearing Commissioner conducts the Inquiry,” said Minister Harris. This transfer got here after the preliminary issuance of a “present trigger” discover to the GRNSW board, questioning their continued governance in New South Wales amidst rising considerations.

Upcoming inquiry classes and expectations:

The inquiry is scheduled to carry classes from 1pm to 7pm on October 15 and 16 on the Truthful Work Fee listening to rooms situated at 80 William Road, East Sydney, Australia. Extra classes will begin from October 21, with additional dates in November and December to be introduced, offering a number of alternatives for concerned events to current their circumstances and for the inquiry to assemble crucial insights.

Appearing Commissioner Lea Drake brings a wealth of expertise to the Drake Inquiry. With 17 years in personal authorized apply and over 28 years of tribunal expertise, together with a 23-year tenure as a Presidential member of the Truthful Work Fee, Ms. Drake is well-prepared to lead this important inquiry. Her earlier roles embody serving because the inaugural Commissioner of the Regulation Enforcement Conduct Fee and a current appointment as a Member within the Staff Compensation Division of the Private Damage Fee.