2026 Thoroughbred Horses Advisory Panel Member application

Submissions are now being accepted. Submissions close at 12:00PM 1 June 2026 (AEST).

IMPORTANT: Please read information below to assist you in completing your application online.

Applications are now open for passionate Thoroughbred breeding industry professionals to join the AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Advisory Panel. 

AgriFutures Australia is currently seeking two suitably qualified industry representatives to join the AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Advisory Panel. 

These positions are open to industry participants, including breeders, industry professionals, equine veterinarians and/or researchers working in thoroughbred breeding or related fields. Applicants with skills or experience in research and development management, and extension or training are also strongly encouraged to apply. Demonstrated governance and financial management experience will be highly regarded. 

About the AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Program 

The AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Program invests in Research, Development and Extension (RD&E) to address thoroughbred industry challenges and opportunities.  

The AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Program was established in 2017 and is supported by a statutory levy paid by mare and stallion owners. The levy is set at a rate of $10/mare covered per season, paid by the stallion owner, and $10/mare return per season, paid by the broodmare owner. AgriFutures Australia also receives funding from the Australian Government, calculated under the Primary Industries Research and Development Act. The levy collects about $400,000 per annum from the industry. When combined with the Government contributions and voluntary industry contributions, the Program has in recent years invested approximately $1 million per annum. 

The Thoroughbred Horses Program has four priorities under the current RDE Plan:  

  1. Thoroughbred horse welfare, workforce safety and environmental sustainability  
  2. Thoroughbred breeding  
  3. Workforce, industry and community engagement 
  4. Thoroughbred diseases and parasites  

About the Advisory Panel 

The Advisory Panel consists of breeders, researchers, veterinarians, and breeding industry representatives with a range of skills and experience in the thoroughbred industry.  

In partnership with AgriFutures Australia, the Advisory Panel provides recommendations on the allocation of RD&E funding for the AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses Program. Responsibilities include: 

  • Advising - providing advice on the industry requirements for investment through the development and monitoring of RD&E Plans 
  • Identifying – providing recommendations to AgriFutures on suitable RD&E opportunities and activities to address industry issues 
  • Aligning – providing feedback and investment advice on RD&E proposals submitted to AgriFutures to ensure investment is aligned to priorities in the Program’s RD&E Plan 
  • Awareness – representing the industry to advise and assist in the dissemination, adoption and commercialisation of RD&E activities.  

Activities of the Program are funded by industry levy and Commonwealth funds, and any funds contributed from third parties. Advisory Panel members are recompensed for their services to AgriFutures Australia at rates determined by the Commonwealth’s Remuneration Tribunal.  

Panel members may be required for up to 25 days per year and some travel is necessary.  

Industry participants who are not currently engaged in AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horse Program funded research are encouraged to apply. Prospective applicants should carefully consider the time commitment required to effectively contribute as an Advisory Panel member prior to applying. This is a valuable opportunity for the next generation of industry leaders to play an active role in shaping the future of the Australian thoroughbred industry. 

How to apply  

Applicants are required to complete the application form, skills matrix and attach their CV (no longer than three pages) via the online application system.   

As part of the application process applicants will be required to outline relevant experience in the thoroughbred breeding sector and expected contribution to the Advisory Panel.  

Applications are now open and close 12pm (AEST) Monday 25 May 2026 – 12pm AEST  

For more information on the position, requirements and evaluation criteria of the role please visit agrifutures.com.au/news/    

For more information please contact: 

Amanda Olthof 

Senior Manager, Levied Industries 

Amanda.olthof@agrifutures.com.au