Thoroughbred Breeders Australia has applied for a federal government-funded research and development levy that will raise A$2.4-million over the next three years for research and development projects. The levy will be funded by mandatory breeder contributions–stallion owners will pay a A$10 levy per mare covered and broodmare owners A$10 per mare returned. The money generated will be matched by the government. The TBA will soon begin consultation with breeders to draw up a list of priorities for research. Topics are likely to include disease control, reproduction and welfare.
“Having almost $1-million to spend on research year-after-year on breeding will be very valuable,” said TBA President Basil Nolan. “It gives our industry certainty and means we can develop research projects that will bring real benefits to all breeders. Up until now spending on research has been sporadic and we've not been able to plan as a nationwide industry.”
Organisations and individuals can also make contributions to the levy, with those also eligible for being matched by the government. Racing Australia, which owns the Australian Stud Book, has already committed A$150,000.
The TBA advises any levy payer who objects to it to contact the Department of Agriculture and list their reasons for objection.
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