Fairfax Media has reported that the last state-owned pari-mutuel betting operation in Australia would be put on the open market ‘within weeks’.
The three codes have formed the Racing Representative Group to lobby the coalition government amid fears the sale of the TAB, valued at $1 billion, may not result in the best return for the industry.
“A Dutch style auction process to us is not even a consideration,” RPG spokesman Michael Grant said.
“We need to be confident the winning bidder has the level of skill and commercial nous that gives the industry a long-term benefit.”
According to figures published by Racing and Wagering Western Australia, the owner of the TAB, the wagering operator contributed $165 million to the state’s racing and sports industry in the 2014-15 year.
Grant said the group had held several meetings with Racing and Gaming Minister Colin Holt in recent weeks and, while not opposed to the sale in principle, is firm in its opinion the new owner must include minimum undertakings and benefits to the racing industry in its bid.
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