Harrison also said she would like to see TAB WA exclude greyhound racing, and replace it with virtual races instead.

“It serves no purpose to keep it running for gambling reasons, it doesn’t even make much money anymore. I would say the majority of people who gamble on it are just addicted to or enjoy gambling itself and are not invested in what race it is,” she said.

Hunter said greyhound racing had important economic, social and community benefits, supporting more than 1300 full-time-equivalent jobs and welcoming around 56,000 people a year to attend the races.

Racing and Gaming Minister Tony Buti said injuries or death were “clearly distressing for all involved and an outcome everyone wants to avoid.”

“The need for continued improvement in the area of animal welfare is widely accepted in the local greyhound racing industry,” he said.

“While there are no plans to end greyhound racing, to thrive into the future the industry recognises the need to have the highest standards.

“In recent years, improvements have included the introduction of injury schemes and a code of practice so that in the event of a major injury, greyhounds are provided with the appropriate care.”