Greens Leader Jo Clay moved an amendment to the 2026-27 Appropriation Bill that sought to terminate funding for the ACT Government’s five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Canberra Racing Club and the Canberra Harness Racing Club, which runs through to June 2027.
During the debate, Thomas indicated that his position has not changed since the Greens moved a similar amendment during the 2025-26 Budget debate. Thomas agreed with Ms Clay’s concerns about the extent of funding provided to the horse racing industry by the ACT Government, particularly given the significant unmet need for funding in many other portfolio areas. He noted, however, that the current MOU is in place until the end of the current financial year, and that it would be inappropriate and a sign of poor integrity to scrap the funding while an agreement is in place.
Thomas echoed views from across Kurrajong that the current funding arrangements do not meet community expectations, and that when the MOU concludes, he is likely to change his position. He called for the ACT Government to consult the Assembly on any future funding arrangements with the Canberra Racing Club, rather than just signing a deal then seeking the Assembly’s support to fund it.
Thomas also called for expedited planning processes to support the proposed housing precinct at Thoroughbred Park, which has been almost a decade in the making and will provide many additional homes in a well-located area as well as supporting Canberra Racing Club’s diversification.
The amendment was supported by the Greens but voted down by all other MLAs.