Balnarring-based trainer Fran Houlihan says RV did not do enough to counter a recent campaign against the sport by the RSPCA and other animal welfare groups, some of which she describes as extreme.

"They [RVL] have done nothing to foster the image of jumps," Houlihan said. "They say they have done their best, but they have not done their best; they have disenfranchised jumps racing and left the rest of the industry vulnerable as a result."

She said the decision would impact heavily on Mornington where many trainers had a jumper in their stable and at Cranbourne where many jumps trainers were based.

RVL chairman Michael Duffy says the decision was taken to protect the rest of the multi-billion dollar thoroughbred industry.

"The RV board is duty bound to always act in the best interests of the long-term sustainability of Victorian thoroughbred racing and to protect the industry's image and reputation within the broader community," he said.

Racing Minister Rob Hulls said the Government accepted the decision. Sstatistics showed the number of races had declined yet the number of falls and fatalities of total starters had increased.

Mr Hulls said Victorian racing would continue to grow and RVL had put in place measures to "assist the industry make a smooth transition".

Opposition racing spokesman Denis Napthine said the ban would hurt rural regions. A Coalition government would reinstate jumps racing.

"This decision will cost many jobs in Victoria, particularly in country areas."

Jumps racing has undergone six reviews since 1991 and Fran Houlihan says each one has created more uncertainty for owners, jockeys and trainers.

"Every review dents confidence in the industry, so the ban has been orchestrated; a self-fulfilling prophecy," she said.

Mornington Racing Club chief executive Fraser Bayne said the club would determine its position at its next meeting.

Jumps racing, especially over the famous former figure-eight track, has been a mainstay at Mornington for generations. The course is home to leading jumps jockey, trainer and three-time Grand National winner Brett Scott.