Chairman John Messara has confirmed his resignation from the board of Racing Australia effective New Year's Day, the date his tenure with the board of Racing NSW takes effect.

Russell Balding, the new chairman of Racing NSW, has been nominated as Racing NSW's representative on the Racing Australia board.

"The last few years have constituted a period of significant change in the structure of Racing Australia. It has been a time of reform and modernisation of the Australian thoroughbred industry," Messara said.

"I feel privileged to have served with an exceptional Racing Australia board, CEO and staff in achieving many improvements for our industry.

"I leave Racing Australia imbued with confidence that the progress achieved over the last few years will continue unabated."

RA chief executive Peter McGauran is also leaving to take up a position with Tabcorp with former NSW premier Barry O'Farrell to replace him early in the new year.