Independent panel launches comprehensive review of racehorse welfare

The treatment of racehorses at abattoirs and what to do with animals that no longer race will form part of a review aimed at producing a new welfare framework for the racing industry.

The industry came under fire last year after ABC's 7.30 uncovered alleged acts of cruelty on a mass scale, including at slaughterhouses, and a separate Queensland government inquiry found the industry had failed to intervene to protect retired racehorses.

Key industry players set up a working group in light of the allegations to produce the new framework for the industry and it has now produced an issues paper calling for submissions on seven points of concern.

"This project is so important for the future of the thoroughbred industry and our horses," Thoroughbred Breeders Australia chief executive Tom Reilly said.

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Article written by: Chris Roots and Damien Ractliffe