Opened the debate
Wilkie moved the second reading motion, arguing that the greyhound racing industry causes widespread animal suffering through injury, death, and poor welfare standards. Wilkie cited data showing a decline in attendance and growing public concern, with polls indicating majority support for ending dog racing. Wilkie highlighted that online wagering sustains the industry, noting billions of dollars in bets and high injury rates in states like New South Wales and Victoria. Wilkie supported the bill as a straightforward measure to remove the wagering exemption, providing a two-year transition period for the industry to adjust. Wilkie maintained that while a total ban is the ultimate goal, ending online gambling is a critical federal intervention to hasten the industry's demise.