AVA Transition Project

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A stronger, simpler, more connected AVA shaped by you  

 You spoke. We listened. Now we’re acting. 

The AVA exists to serve, support and strengthen the veterinary profession. But to keep delivering on that promise, we need to make some changes, together.

Members have told us loud and clear: 

  • “Make membership more affordable and inclusive”  
  • “Improve technology and communication”  
  • “Focus on what matters most”  
  • “Support volunteers and grassroots connection”  
  • “Back early career vets and students”  

This project is our response. It’s about creating an AVA that’s easier to engage with, better aligned to how veterinarians work today and ready to lead into the future. 

Have your say: transitionproject@ava.com.au | anonymous feedback form  

Catch up: watch the latest videos in the AVA Transition Project Video Library

Read: the Frequently asked questions 

The veterinary profession is changing. The way people work, learn and connect is shifting, and our current structures aren’t keeping up. 

What we heard from you 
Through the 2024 Stakeholder Survey and more than 35 focus groups, you told us what matters most: 

  • Simple, affordable and inclusive membership 
  • A structure that reflects different roles, life stages and work settings 
  • Transparent and inclusive leadership 
  • Equity in access and participation 
  • A Constitution that reflects who we are and how we work today 

These priorities are shaping every part of the Transition Project, from the membership model and proposed new categories to how directors are nominated and elected. 

This isn’t just about updating processes. It’s about securing the future of the AVA and making sure we remain relevant, trusted and impactful.  

A strategic step forward  

This project is a key step in delivering the AVA’s Strategic Plan 2025–2028, which was built on your feedback. You’ve helped identify where the AVA can have the greatest impact by focusing on what matters most to members and to the future of the profession.  

The Transition Project directly supports the plan’s four key goals: 

  • Champion the profession 
  • Advance professional excellence 
  • Empower connectivity 
  • Deliver an exceptional experience 

 To deliver an exceptional experience, the AVA is modernising its operations, simplifying processes and strengthening governance to improve how members engage. These deliberate choices will shape a future where veterinarians are recognised, celebrated and equipped to deliver exceptional care. 

By amplifying advocacy, empowering members and transforming how value is delivered, we’re building a stronger AVA and a thriving veterinary profession. 

It also supports the AVA in bringing to life our vision of A thriving veterinary profession, supported by a strong, inclusive and future-ready AVA. 
 

This is the biggest change to the AVA in over a decade, and it’s shaped by members at every step. 

Workstream 

What it’s about 

Why it matters 
  1. All-inclusive membership model 

One flat annual fee with access to all SIG communities and resources 

Easier to join and connect, better value, more inclusive 

2. Constitution reform 

Governance updates aligned with modern expectations and ACNC and Corporations Act requirements 

Stronger accountability and fairer representation 

3. Technology, process and system evolution 

Better digital experiences for our members supported by tools and clearer processes for our SIGs Divisions and Branches 

Easier to stay connected, find information and get support  

 

You told us, and we listened  

You told us... 

So we’re... 

Membership is expensive  

Introducing a single, all-inclusive fee 

You want to get involved but it’s not clear how 

Simplifying categories and boosting local involvement 

Our tech is clunky and outdated 

Rebuilding our website and member portal with other modern communication tools 

SIGs and Divisions feel under-supported 

Providing tools, resourcing and clearer roles 

Students and grads need help 

Investing in early career support and wellbeing 

 

The Transition Project is about making the AVA work better for all of us. The AVA Board gave in-principle approval to a new all-inclusive membership design in December 2024. Since then, your feedback (via emails, meetings, over 35 focus groups) has been shaping the detail. 

Wherever you are in your career or whatever role you play, this model is designed to support you. These are just some of the benefits being proposed under the new model.  

✅ No financial barriers to SIGs, just connection 
Join any SIG, access every resource and engage in the conversations that matter most to your work without extra fees.  

✅ A membership that fits you, not the other way around 
Clearer categories, fairer pricing and flexible options whether you’re full time, part time or in transition.  

✅ Real support when and where you need it 
From mentoring and mental health resources to peer networks, especially for students and early-career vets, support is built in not bolted on.  

✅ Less red tape, more impact 
SIG leaders, Divisions, branches and volunteers will spend less time on admin and more time building communities, advocacy and advancing their field.  

✅ Recognition for every role in the profession 
Nurses, technicians and support teams are included and supported as essential to veterinary care.  

✅ A stronger voice, whatever your setting 
Whether you work in academia, government or industry, you’ll have clear ways to contribute, influence and stay connected to practice, policy and advocacy.   

✅ Membership that works for practices, not against them 
Clearer pricing and simplified admin make it easier for practices to support staff development and engagement.  

✅ A lasting connection to your profession 
Retired or semi-retired? Meaningful ways for you to stay involved, mentor others and help shape the future, your experience matters. 

If you have questions or feedback, we want to hear from you. 

 Share Your Feedback 

 Stay Informed 

  • Make sure to read your AVA national newsletter
  •  Visit this webpage regularly for project updates and key dates

 Meet the Teams 

Constitution Reform Working Group 

The CRWG was established by the AVA Board to guide the review of the AVA Constitution and governance model. It is made up of a group of dedicated veterinarians from a mix of clinical and non-clinical backgrounds, states and sectors.  

Members: 

  • Dr Gemma Chuck 
  • Dr Warwick Vale 
  • Dr Stephen Yeomans 
  • Mr Jeremy Lee 
  • Dr Wesley Simek 
  • Dr Simone Maher 
  • Steven Bowman- external advisor from conscious governance 

 AVA Transition Project Team 

  • Melissa King, Chief Executive , AVA 
  • Sarah Bell, Head of Strategic Projects , AVA 
  • Michael Ghattas, Head of Corporate Services, AVA  
  • Rachel Zeng, Strategic Projects Officer , AVA 

Transition Project FAQs

A comprehensive review of member questions.
View FAQs

Videos & Recordings

Catch up here