Wednesday, 29 May 2024

Ministers statements: Greyhound Adoption Program

Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice, Minister for Victim Support) (12:41): I rise today to speak about the Greyhound Adoption Program at Tarrengower Prison. I have had the pleasure of updating the house on this program previously. It is one that I know holds significant interest to many members of this house. The Greyhound Adoption Program gives prisoners the opportunity to care for and ready former racing greyhounds for adoption. Earlier this month we proudly marked an important milestone in our program: the rehoming of the 600th greyhound, named Sparrow. Sparrow’s graduation marked a significant milestone for the program, and it is a testament to all the staff and participants who have worked so hard to get it there.

In my corrections portfolio we understand the positive effects of rehabilitation not just on the lives of people in custody or their families and communities but also on community safety more broadly. We also know the rehabilitative benefits caring for and training dogs can have for people in custody. This fantastic program not only gives retired racing greyhounds a new life but has helped more than 100 participants gain valuable skills and build their confidence. Prisoners involved in the program train former racing dogs across a six-week period and prepare them for adoption, supported by Greyhound Racing Victoria. The prisoners take responsibility for exercising, socialising and helping the dogs learn basic obedience skills. Along the way the participants themselves learn valuable skills, helping their rehabilitation and reducing their risk of reoffending upon release.

Thank you to all the corrections staff and program participants that have helped rehome 600 dogs and counting. I am sure many are curled up on the couch or making memories with families right across the state. I am also excited for the future of this progressive and pawsitive program – sorry, that was terrible.