Applications for the 2026 Queensland Off-The-Track Grants Program are now open.
Up to $350,000 will once again be available across three initiatives through the program, supporting not-for-profit organisations, charities and QOTT Acknowledged Retrainers that provide equine retraining or rehabilitation services, or second careers for retired racehorses, including as therapy horses.
In 2026, the three available grant streams are:
- QOTT Veterinary and Rehabilitation Grant;
- QOTT Therapy Horse Grant; and
- QOTT Acknowledged Retrainer Expansion Grant.
The QOTT Grants Program aims to support vulnerable horses by assisting not-for-profit organisations and charities who provide equine rehabilitation services for retired racehorses that are no longer part of the racing industry, but require assistance at later stages of their lives.
A grant is also available for equine-assisted therapy organisations that incorporate retrained retired racehorses into their programs.
In addition, funding for QOTT’s network of Acknowledged Retrainers continues to play a critical role in supporting retired racehorses transitioning to new homes, while also strengthening the quality and capacity of the state’s Acknowledged Retrainer network.
Racing Minister Tim Mander said the Crisafulli Government is committed to working collaboratively with stakeholders to further the lifelong care and welfare of racing animals.
“The QOTT Grants Program is designed to provide vital support to individuals and grassroots community organisations that make a significant contribution to the wellbeing of retired racehorses,” Minister Mander said.
“These grants not only provide financial assistance to these individuals and groups, but also recognise the valuable work they do in supporting retired racehorses.
“The Crisafulli Government recently delivered its plan for the future of Queensland racing, The Next Lap, which puts the care of racing animals ahead of profits and aims to enhance post-racing welfare outcomes across all three codes.”
The fourth round of grant funding in 2025 supported 14 successful recipients by contributing close to $200,000 towards maximising aftercare outcomes – in addition to a further $500,000 in funding awarded under the previous three rounds.
RQ Senior Animal Care Manager Kim Duffy said the QOTT Grants Program continues to play a vital role in improving welfare outcomes of retired racehorses across Queensland.
“This program is about more than funding - it's about strengthening the entire aftercare network,” she said.
“By supporting retrainers, therapy providers and rehabilitation programs, the QOTT Grants Program helps build capacity so more retired racehorses can be successfully transitioned into rewarding new roles.
“The QOTT Grants Program also fosters strong relationships between RQ and the broader equine community, with these collaborations essential to ensuring retired racehorses are given every opportunity to thrive beyond their racing careers.
“Whether through therapy work, education programs or recreational riding, these grants help ensure retired racehorses can continue to lead active, purposeful lives.”
The QOTT Grants Program complements the various post-racing initiatives introduced by RQ over the past five years to support racehorse aftercare in Queensland.
These include the Subsidised Lessons Program, Acknowledged Retrainers Program, Event Sponsorship Program, Nutrition Education Hub, Safety Net Partnership with Save A Horse Australia, Premium Event Partnerships, QOTT Education Program, QOTT Clubhouse, the New OTT Owner Welcome Pack and the On-site Humane Euthanasia Program – Equine.
Applications for the QOTT Grants Program close at 5pm (AEST) Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
Click here for more information on the QOTT Grants Program, including guidelines and application criteria.
