AVA meets with Minister Watt’s advisors

This week AVA President Dr Bronwyn Orr, Head of Veterinary and Public Affairs, Dr Cristy Secombe and National Manager of Advocacy, Mr Graham Pratt met with the Minister of Agriculture, Minister Watt's advisors. In the time that we had, we discussed issues of importance to the veterinary profession of relevance to the Minister’s portfolio.

Workforce sustainability, particularly regionally and rurally, were discussed in depth. We touched on the range of actions that could be taken over the short- and long-term to help future proof the veterinary profession so it can continue to play its role in protecting Australia’s animal industries. This includes the immediate action of a HECs fee forgiveness scheme for rural veterinarians, similar to the scheme in place for rural doctors.  

The role of the veterinary profession in emergency animal diseases (EAD) and biosecurity was also discussed, particularly calling out the importance of the role of the private veterinary sector and laboratory support. We also talked about the work the AVA is doing through the EAD Vet Summit to bring the profession together on this important issue.

Other topics that were discussed were the role of veterinarians in animal welfare and our keen interest to see the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy progressed, as well as the importance of One Health in an Australian CDC.