Racing and Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) and the Western Australian Breeders Owners Trainers and Reinspersons Association (BOTRA) are pleased to announce all harness drivers will receive superannuation payments on driving fees, from May 2021. Driving fees, including superannuation, are paid by RWWA on behalf on owners.
The contributions are intended to provide additional financial support to drivers and will be calculated as follows:
• Effective immediately from 1 May 2021, drivers will receive contributions representing 9.5% of their driving fees. These contributions will be on top of current driving fees.
• Drivers (regardless of whether they are still driving) will receive voluntary goodwill superannuation contributions representing 9.5% of their driving fees earned backpaid from 1 August 2016, subject to meeting minimum earnings in a month of $450. These contributions will be on top of the driving fees already earned. As these contributions relate to historical periods, an interest component will also be provided.
WA BOTRA President Warren Robinson welcomed the announcement, with the association having worked closely with RWWA to see the introduction of superannuation contributions for the State’s drivers.
“This is something that BOTRA has felt is essential for supporting our harness drivers, as super for many forms a critical part of their retirement plan,” Warren said.
“Driving is an exciting and rewarding career and it is important that we are not only assisting our reinspersons during their time in the industry, but that we also set them up for success later in life.”
RWWA Chief Executive Officer Ian Edwards said that the organisation recognises the important role that harness drivers play in the racing industry.
“Our drivers are critical to the harness racing industry and therefore as an industry it is vital that we are doing what we can to assist them in planning for their futures,” Ian said.
“Superannuation is a crucial element of any person’s financial security in retirement and RWWA is pleased to provide this contribution on behalf of owners.”
Media Contact: Lauren Prater
RWWA, Public Relations Manager
E: lauren.prater@rwwa.com.au
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