What do I need to know about horse racing, greyhounds and harness races?
- Full guide on racing in Australia
- Includes horse racing, greyhounds & harness
- Tips for how to get started with betting on racing

Melbourne Cup day at Flemington (Photo by Getty Images)
Racing goes hand in hand with betting culture in Australia and there's several factors you should consider before punting.
In Australia, racing has a special place in the betting landscape. With over 300 racetracks nationwide, you can find action nearly every day. While thoroughbred (horse) racing is the most prominent, greyhound and harness (trotting) racing also hold loyal followings.
Types of Racing in Australia
1. Thoroughbred Racing: Known for marquee events like the Melbourne Cup, Caulfield Cup, and The Everest. Distances vary from sprint (around 1000m) to staying races (3000m+). Pay attention to track conditions (Good, Soft, Heavy) and barrier draws, which can significantly affect results. Big race days attract huge betting pools, including exotics like trifectas or quaddies (see Bet Types & Strategies → Q1).
2. Greyhound Racing: Fast and brief, with dogs sprinting around an oval track. It’s essential to check box draws (similar to barrier positions), as certain boxes are historically advantageous depending on the track layout. Form often includes each greyhound’s last few runs, finishing times, and track preferences.
3. Harness Racing: Horses race at a trot or pace, pulling a lightweight sulky. Factors like gate speed, driver tactics, and track size can heavily influence outcomes. Some punters specialize in harness form because it’s more niche, potentially spotting value others miss.
Key Tools & Tips for Betting on Racing
- Form Guides: These list every participant, their recent performances, track condition preferences, and jockey/driver info. Websites like Racing Australia or state-based racing bodies (e.g., Racing NSW) provide form details, plus insider comments.
- Jockey/Trainer Statistics: A top jockey riding for a leading trainer often signals a well-prepared horse. But watch if they’re trying a new distance or jumping in grade (class).
- Promotions: Many bookies offer daily “Best Tote” or “Protest Payouts,” ensuring you still get paid if your horse finishes first but is later demoted or if there’s an upheld protest. This can boost returns or protect you from stewards’ decisions.
- Minimum Bet Laws: In states like NSW and Victoria, bookies must accept a certain bet size from winning punters. This helps advanced bettors who don’t want to be limited after consistent wins. (See Legality & Licensing for more on ensuring a bookie is legit.)
For novices, it might feel overwhelming at first, but start simply: read the form, note track conditions, and see if a horse or dog has consistent success on that surface or distance.
If you’re time-poor, following a reputable tipster or using your bookmaker’s tips can be a decent starting point—though it’s always wise to do your own checks.
Over time, you’ll see patterns in track bias, jockey success rates, and how certain greyhound trainers or harness drivers excel at specific circuits.
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