Racing Queensland (RQ) on Monday morning announced that all Queensland jockeys and harness drivers would receive a 12% pay rise over the course of a five-year period.
Effective from July 4, 2022, jockeys will earn an extra $5 per ride, pocketing $230 each time they sit in the saddle, while that amount will continue to increase in $5 increments over five years.
Also commencing in early July is an increase to jockeys’ superannuation, as they will now earn 10.5% instead of 10% due to government legislation.
“We are pleased to be able to deliver another increase to the base fees for our jockeys and drivers around the state,” RQ Executive General Manager Operations Adam Wallish said.
“This increase is a deserved acknowledgement to the service our jockeys and drivers in the Sunshine State, whose contribution to the success of the sport is immeasurable.
“We look forward to a continuation in delivering positive outcomes for our participants.”
The pay increases from RQ come in conjunction with the Queensland Jockeys’ Association (QJA).
“We are pleased to be able to work with Racing Queensland in delivering this positive outcome for riders around the state,” said QJA secretary Pam O’Neill, who was recently inducted into the Queensland Sport Hall of Fame.
“This increase provides further surety for those at the coalface of the sport, and celebrates the contribution made by jockeys to racing in Queensland.”
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