The State Government last week confirmed Mr Sal Perna AM as Greyhound Industry Reform Inspector (GIRI).
Mr Perna was appointed as Victoria’s inaugural Racing Integrity Commissioner in 2010 and provided independent oversight of integrity in the state’s multi-billion-dollar racing industry. He completed his tenure in March 2021.
A former police officer, he is currently an Independent Director of the International Tennis Integrity Agency and a panel member of the National Sports Tribunal.
He is also a board member of both the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Independent Ethics Board and the National Basketball League’s Advisory Board.
As GIRI, Mr Perna will oversee Greyhound Racing South Australia (GRSA) actions in response to the recently completed recommendations made by former Victorian Police Commissioner Graham Ashton in the Independent Inquiry into the Governance of the Greyhound Racing Industry.
The recommendations include significant animal welfare, integrity and administrative reforms, the implementation of which will now be overseen by Mr Perna, with GRSA to deliver the changes required.
He will commence in the role in the coming months, with the Government considering legislation to support his powers as GIRI to ensure he is able to fulfil his role without hindrance.
Mr Perna said he was pleased to take on the role of GIRI and looked forward to working with GRSA as they implemented the changes recommended by Mr Ashton in order to provide a new future for the sport.
“Integrity is critical to success in racing. Without integrity, the industry’s reputation is damaged, people won’t bet and stakeholders lose confidence. It also goes without saying that the welfare of greyhounds must be a priority, not just their racing ability.”
Mr Perna will regularly report to Katrine Hildyard MP, the Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing, with a final report due two years after his term officially commences.
“I am very pleased that Mr Perna will be the GIRI. His extensive experience in and passion for integrity and ethics in sport and racing will be vital as the industry undertakes its process of reform and evolves in line with societal expectations,” Ms Hildyard said.