Former Victorian police chief Graham Ashton will lead South Australia's independent inquiry into greyhound racing that could strip the industry of its freedom to largely self-regulate.
The inquiry was prompted by the recent release of footage of a trainer kicking and punching a dog.
It also came just weeks after penalties were handed down in SA's first confirmed case of live baiting.
Premier Peter Malinauskas said the conduct in the video was unacceptable and animal welfare should be a paramount consideration for the industry.
"We’ve long been assured that instances like this do not happen in the greyhound racing industry," he said.
"But in light of the available evidence, we’re not prepared to take those assurances at face value."
The premier said the inquiry was not about banning racing, but making sure the industry was clean and well regulated.
"There is a live question mark about whether or not it is appropriate for the industry to govern itself into the future," he said.
"Can it maintain the standards that this government and the broader community expect of them?"
Mr Ashton is due to report back to the government by the end of November.
He said he would conduct a range of interviews and consult broadly across the industry.
"The particular emphasis for me is on the welfare of greyhounds," he said.
"The footage in this case was abhorrent.
"It's really important that we examine how broadly this is going on and what other risks are out there to greyhounds and their welfare."
Mr Ashton will look at the industry's operations, governance and culture as well as the nature and efficiency of regulations.
He will examine if the system inhibits the ability to prevent, investigate or respond to serious allegations of animal mistreatment and will seek to identify any systemic issues or challenges across the sector.
Greyhound Racing SA said it welcomed his appointment.
"We are determined to transparently engage with and learn from the independent inquiry process because we are committed to creating a stronger greyhound racing industry," it said in a statement.