The Australian Racing Board (ARB) announced Sept. 16 it will impose a total ban of anabolic steroid use both in and out of competition.

According to the announcement, the ban will be introduced Nov. 1 and will take effect May 1, 2014, "thereby giving six months for a treated horse to be free of anabolic steroids," according to a release.

Currently in Australia, anabolic steroids are only prohibited in horses on race day, but the new ban will apply to all Thoroughbreds from the age of 6 months, "with that period allowed in the interests of animal welfare," the announcement said.

"The ban on anabolic steroids goes far beyond any other racing jurisdiction outside of Europe and was decided by the ARB board after lengthy consideration of veterinary and scientific advice and consultation with trainers’ and owners’ associations," ARB chief executive Peter McGauran said in a statement