New Racing Queensland CEO appointed

• Jason Scott appointed new RQ CEO
• Strong experience set to hold Mr Scott in good stead
• Racing continues to grow under the Palaszczuk Government

Racing Queensland has new leadership following the appointment of highly regarded wagering professional Jason Scott as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Mr Scott has been based in the United States as the Vice President Trading, VIP and Retail Operations for BetMGM, and before that served as the CEO of Ladbrokes Australia from 2017 to 2019.

Standing out in Racing Queensland’s selection process, Mr Scott’s experience, wagering background and strong network across Queensland made him the strongest candidate for the role of leading Queensland’s almost $2 billion racing industry.

The new appointment comes at a key time for racing in Queensland, with the recent commencement of the Palaszczuk Government’s more sustainable funding model that is seeing 80 percent Betting Tax revenue reinvested back into the industry, having allowed a $31 million boost to prize money in 2023. 

Quotes attributable to Racing Minister Grace Grace:

“Since the Palaszczuk Government came to office in 2015, Racing Queensland and the broader industry have overcome significant challenges and gone from strength to strength.

“With more prize money available, major infrastructure being delivered, and greater support for country racing, I look forward to working with Jason Scott to ensure the best is yet to come for racing in the Sunshine State.”

Quotes attributable to incoming Racing Queensland CEO Jason Scott:

“The impact of the Queensland racing industry is incredible and touches every corner of the state.

“Under the Board’s leadership, the organisation has made incredible strides and my role will be to enhance that in the coming years through continued innovation of our racing calendar, greater commerciality and delivering state-of-the-art infrastructure.

“This includes stimulating wagering growth and working with Tabcorp to increase pari-mutuel betting on Queensland product.

“There’s a really solid platform to work from, and an ambitious and clearly defined strategy that I’m looking forward to leading with the Board and Management.

“The Queensland Government has also been great supporters of racing and I look forward to that continuing during my time at the helm.”

Quotes attributable to RQ Chair Steve Wilson AM:

“It’s an exciting period for Jason to take the reins at Racing Queensland.

“With record-breaking returns to participants, and more prize money than ever before, we intend to change the face of racing in the Sunshine State over the next five years.

“This includes $450 million of catalytic infrastructure projects such as the redevelopment of the Gold Coast Turf Club, along with the establishment of the new world-class Greater Brisbane Greyhound Centre and Queensland Harness Centre.

“The role was highly coveted, and throughout the recruitment process, it became clear that Jason was the outstanding candidate.”

ENDS

Media contacts:

Minister Grace’s office – Daniel Webb – 0438 401 078

Racing Queensland – Richard Goodbody – 0438 733 738