This consensus by the States is achieved by agreeing to abide by and to enforce the Australian Rules of Racing which are within the authority of the ARB.

The Principal Racing Authorities are: It is the Australian Racing Board’s responsibility to ensure that thoroughbred racing in all States and Territories of Australia is conducted according to the same general practices, conditions and integrity.

Besides its administration role, the Australian Racing Board has a number of advisory groups which investigate, discuss, make recommendations, and give advice on matters such as Equine integrity and welfare, Group and Listed races, Rules Review and Handicapping.

The Australian Stud Book, an independent organisation, and the Registrar of Racehorses also submit reports to the Australian Racing Board.

In September 2014 the Board announced it would merge with the Australian Stud Book and Racing Information Services Australia to form a new national body to administer thoroughbred racing, to be called Racing Australia.