Advocacy to Small Business Commissions

As veterinary practices operate in the majority as small businesses across Australia, the AVA is reaching out to the Small Business Commissioners, and other relevant government departments, to engage them in discussions around the challenges facing the veterinary profession as part of the small business sector. 

Topics that are being discussed include:

• Management of stray animals including the costs to veterinary practices and issues with pounds 
• The requirement to provide after-hours services and the associated issues  
• Funding for veterinary care to disaster impacted animals (owned & wildlife)
• Challenges around recouping the costs associated with delivery of veterinary services that are provided for the benefit of public good
• And how all the above impacts on the veterinary workforce and its mental health 

Meetings held with the New South Wales, West Australian and Queensland Commissions have been very productive with the depth, extend and complexities of the veterinary profession’s challenges being conveyed and appreciated. 

Resources for small businesses have also been provided and these are available through the relevant AVA Division newsletters.