The Australian Jockeys Association announced today that its members throughout Australia will not take industrial action next Tuesday, 1 December, as Racing Australia’s new rules relating to use of the whip come into effect.

AJA General Manager Des O’Keeffe said that although there were strongly divided views on the course of action finally agreed to, feedback from a majority of state jockey associations committees was that the interests of the industry would not be best served by industrial action.

“The issues were hotly debated at both national and state levels. Although it was a long way from unanimous, it has been agreed that we’ll endeavor to ride to the new rule commencing Tuesday.”

“It will then be up to Australia’s punters, trainers, owners and race-goers to decide what they think of it.”

O’Keeffe emphasized that the issue with Racing Australia’s processes through the six month debate remained a major cause of angst to jockeys and their association.

“Whatever Racing Australia says, the fact is its consultative processes caused as much anger as did the rule change itself.”

“One thing I am very proud of is that Australia’s riders have remained united throughout some trying times during the last six months.”

For further information please contact:

Des O’Keeffe AJA General Manager: 0412 554 155

Paul Innes AJA CEO: 0412 707 674

Ross Inglis AJA Chairman: 0417 573 347