THE state’s greyhound ban has been officially scrapped after MPs passed repeal legislation today.

Former Premier Mike Baird announced the ban in July last year, citing widespread cruelty as the key reason for shutting down the industry.

media_camera The state’s greyhound ban has been officially scrapped after MPs passed repeal legislation today.

But after howls of protest from greyhound racing participants, punters, fans and ordinary people across the state, the government backtracked and decided the axe the ban. It had been due to begin in July.

The final parts of the repeal legislation, including key reforms to guard against cruelty, were passed by MPs this morning, officially ending the long-running and damaging dishlicker debacle.

media_camera Minister for Racing Paul Toole says his first task will be establishing the independent Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission. Picture: Adam Yip

The legislation includes provision for a new integrity commission to oversee greyhound racing, life bans for live baiting and other malpractice and improved registration and tracking for dogs.

“We can now begin the important work of implementing these changes to develop an ethical and sustainable greyhound racing industry,” said Racing Minister Paul Toole.

“One of our first tasks will be establishing the independent Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission with wide-ranging powers to target wrongdoing.”

The government is stumping up $41 million over five years to pay for the reforms but it remains unclear how the industry will be funded thereafter.

One measure under consideration is a “point of consumption” tax, which would impose new levies on online betting companies offering services in NSW.

media_camera Former Labor Premier Morris Iemma was instrumental in the reforms. Picture: Adam Yip

The tax is due to start in South Australia in July, raising around $9 million a year. In NSW it would likely raise far more.

Mr Toole added, “Today marks a new start, with the NSW Government working in partnership with the greyhound industry for a stronger and sustainable future.”

The reforms were borne out of a panel led by former Labor premier Morris Iemma and also including representatives from the RSPCA, the greyhound racing industry, the state’s chief vet and premier’s office.