Queensland jockeys get riding fee increase
Queensland jockeys will get a pay increase which will mean their base rate for a ride will rise by $40 over three years.
Jockey fees were increased from $180 to $200 per ride in 2018.
From July this year they it will go to $205 followed by an increase to $212 in July 2020 and to $220 the following year..
In addition, Racing Queensland will also lift the maximum weekly benefit applicable under the workers’ compensation insurance policy.
“The agreement is the culmination of a positive and collaborative approach to negotiations between Racing Queensland and the QJA,” RQ’s chief operating officer Adam Wallish said.
“Not only does it provide certainty and surety to both parties over the next three years, it acknowledges the outstanding service provided by our jockeys across the state on a weekly basis.”
In recent times, RQ has delivered a raft of initiatives including $18 million in additional prize money – a further $8 million was announced by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk at the weekend – as well as the introduction of prize money distribution down to 10th at TAB meetings.
QJA president Glen Prentice welcomed the agreement on behalf of his members.
“We’re pleased to have reached a positive outcome with this three-year agreement with Racing Queensland on riding fees and other benefits payable to our 210 members,” Prentice said
“We believe the agreement appropriately recognises the contribution made by jockeys to racing in this state.”