Drake Inquiry on GRNSW Gains Extension, Expands to Financial Oversight

The Drake Inquiry, established to investigate Greyhound Racing NSW (GRNSW), has received an extension for its deadline, now set for April 30, 2025. Originally expected to conclude by mid-December of this year, the need for a thorough examination of a high volume of submissions and complex issues has led to this postponement. Racing Minister David Harris emphasized that this extension ensures that Acting Commissioner, the Honorable Lea Drake, is equipped with sufficient time and resources to delve deeply into the extensive information presented, including testimonies from additional witnesses.

The inquiry’s scope broadened to include financial oversight:

Further amplifying the inquiry’s depth, Minister Harris has approved an expansion of the terms of reference at the behest of Ms. Drake. This expansion allows the inquiry to intensively examine GRNSW’s financial management practices. The timing is critical as GRNSW is expected to report a significant financial loss in its 2023/24 annual report soon to be tabled in parliament. As The Greyhound Recorder reports, the revised terms of reference mandate the Acting Commissioner to “inquire into, report on, and make findings and recommendations in relation to GRNSW processes and management, including financial management, procurement and recruitment practices, and concerns regarding any alleged or identified conflicts of interest and the management of conflicts of interest.”

In addition to adjusting the inquiry’s timeline and focus, Minister Harris has extended the terms of the GRNSW board members by nine months. This decision aims to maintain stability within GRNSW as the inquiry progresses. “I consider it important that, as far as possible, there is stability for GRNSW and the industry while the Acting Commissioner conducts the Inquiry,” stated Minister Harris. This move came after the initial issuance of a “show cause” notice to the GRNSW board, questioning their continued governance in New South Wales amidst emerging concerns.

Upcoming inquiry sessions and expectations:

The inquiry is scheduled to hold sessions from 1pm to 7pm on October 15 and 16 at the Fair Work Commission hearing rooms located at 80 William Street, East Sydney, Australia. Additional sessions will commence from October 21, with further dates in November and December to be announced, providing multiple opportunities for involved parties to present their cases and for the inquiry to gather necessary insights.

Acting Commissioner Lea Drake brings a wealth of experience to the Drake Inquiry. With 17 years in private legal practice and over 28 years of tribunal experience, including a 23-year tenure as a Presidential member of the Fair Work Commission, Ms. Drake is well-prepared to lead this significant inquiry. Her previous roles include serving as the inaugural Commissioner of the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission and a recent appointment as a Member in the Workers Compensation Division of the Personal Injury Commission.