Public Affairs and Advocacy Update January-February 2025

02 Jul 2025

Overview of activities January - February 2025

Policy Advisory Council 

The Policy Advisory Council (PAC) has ratified 10 policies (9 updates, 1 new), with 5 additional policies out for member comment. The AVA continues reviewing and updating policies to reflect contemporary veterinary and animal welfare standards. Notable updates include policies on biosecurity, humane slaughter, and infection prevention, while new policies focus on sustainability and ethical considerations in research and animal trade. The PAC webpage has been updated accordingly. 

National Veterinary Technical Input 

Key updates include guidance on the uncertainty surrounding HomeSafeID microchips, advising veterinarians and pet owners on alternative microchip registries to protect pet registration data. The AVA also contributed to consultations on Australian Standards for Electronic Animal Identification, ensuring consistency in microchip standards. Additional efforts included advocacy regarding IV fluid shortages, antimicrobial prescribing guidelines, and participation in preliminary briefings on the live sheep export transition. 

Public Affairs and Advocacy 

AVA has actively engaged in advocacy efforts, including: 

  • Submissions: Provided input on the WA Veterinary Practice Amendments Regulations draft, NSW Animal Welfare Regulations, Tasmania’s Dog Welfare Regulations, and Victoria’s Biosecurity Legislation Review. 
  • Government Engagement: AVA representatives met with key Federal and State politicians to highlight veterinary workforce challenges, mental health concerns, and biosecurity issues. 
  • Election Advocacy: Priorities were developed for the WA State Election and Federal Pre-Budget Submission, calling for investment in workforce sustainability, veterinary student support, and public-good veterinary services. 

Stakeholder Engagement 

The AVA engaged with various stakeholders, including meetings with the Queensland Minister for Primary Industries on workforce and sustainability issues, NSW Local Government on stray animal management, and the Federal Government on live export transition planning. Other engagements focused on veterinary workforce support, biosecurity measures, and improving regulatory frameworks. 

THRIVE Wellness Program 

The next phase of the Cultivating Safe Teams (CST) pilot program is launching, with a "Train-the-Trainer" initiative underway. The AVA THRIVE Symposium is scheduled for the AVA National Conference in Sydney on 12 May, aiming to enhance psychological health and safety in veterinary workplaces. 

Data 

  • Submissions: 4  
  • Get Involved Opportunities: 10 
  • External Stakeholder Engagements: 9 meetings  
  • Media Releases: 2 

Detail on activities January - February 2025

Policy Advisory Council:  

Policy Advisory Council (PAC) update  

The Policy Advisory Council has recently ratified 10 policies (9 updates, 1 new), with a further 5 policies currently out for member comment.  

In the past 3 years AVA has been reviewing our Policy Compendium to update older policies, and develop new policies on issues of concern to the profession.  

AVA policies have wide-reaching influence and underpin AVA’s advocacy work, especially AVA submissions.  We are so grateful to PAC members for this important service to the organisation. 

The most recent group of policies to be ratified by the Board are as follows (9 updates, 1 new): 

The Policy Council webpage has been updated accordingly. 

There are a further 5 policies currently out for member comment: 

There are a further 15 draft policies at various stages of update or development, and these are currently being reviewed for potential inclusion in PAC’s May 2025 agenda, to be determined in consultation with the PAC Chair.  

National Veterinary Technical Input:  

Important update on HomeSafeID: Action required for veterinarians and pet owners  

Veterinarians and pet owners are advised to take immediate steps to safeguard pet registration records.  

We want to provide an important update on HomeSafeID, one of Australia’s non-institutional microchip registries. With ongoing uncertainty about its future, veterinarians and pet owners should take immediate steps to safeguard pet registration records. 

Current situation 

  • HomeSafeID is not in liquidation, but a related company, PET ELECTRONIC TAGS (P.E.T.S) PTY LTD, is in liquidation. 
  • Both companies share the same sole director, who is currently unreachable. 
  • HomeSafeID is not answering telephone or email communications, and it is likely that new registrations and transfers of ownership are not being processed. 

What this means for microchip records 

Victoria: 

  • HomeSafeID is no longer licensed under the Victorian Domestic Animals Act 1994 to provide an animal registry service (microchip registry) for Victorian pet owners. 
  • As an authorised implanter in Victoria, you must no longer register implanted microchips for clients’ animals with HomeSafeID. 
  • Detailed Information for Authorised Veterinarian Implanters: 
  • If you have submitted microchip registration forms to HomeSafeID since November 2024 there is a possibility that the records have not been entered in the database, meaning the microchips may not be registered with HomeSafeID. You are encouraged to register these microchips with another animal registry service licenced in Victoria, the names of which are listed below and for which further details can be found here.  
  • To ensure continuity in microchip registrations, Animal Welfare Victoria (AWV) advises that you now register your clients' animals’ microchip details with one of the following Victorian-licensed registries: 
  • AWV has received existing Victorian records for cats, dogs and horses that were held by HomeSafeID. AWV is in the process of selecting a currently approved animal registry service to receive the Victorian data for cats, dogs and horses. Once this data is received by the selected animal registry service, owners will be contacted by the registry with further information in the coming weeks.  For other species, you may wish to advise that owners register any new and existing microchips with one of the approved registries (above). 
  • Finally, our records indicate that as an authorised implanter you have been issued an AXXXX number, which satisfies the requirements of Regulation 12(a)(xi) of the Domestic Animals Regulations 2015. If you need to update the details associated with your AXXXX number, you may contact your preferred Victorian-licensed Animal Registry Service provider or email AWV at pet.welfare@agriculture.vic.gov.au. 

Queensland: 

  • The Queensland Government is aware of the issue and developing a response. 

Western Australia: 

  • The Western Australian Government is aware of the issue, and AVA is currently awaiting advice from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. 

Tasmania: 

  • The AVA is currently awaiting advice from the Department of Premier and Cabinet – Office of Local Government. 

Australian Capital Territory 

  • The ACT Government is currently advising pet owners to re-register their pets with another licensed microchip registry provider. 
  • The AVA is currently awaiting further advice from the ACT Government as to what actions they may or may not be taking to secure pet owner data. 

Northern Territory 

  • The AVA is currently awaiting further advice from the NT Government. 

New South Wales and South Australia: 

  • NSW and SA have government-run microchip databases, meaning pet records registered with these official systems are not affected. 

IMPORTANT- WA, TAS, NT, ACT - may be at higher risk: 

  • Management of owner and animal data associated with microchipped pets is not as regulated in these states and territories, meaning when HomeSafeID becomes unavailable, records could become inaccessible or lost. 
  • Pet owners and veterinarians in these states and territories should strongly consider transferring records to an alternative licensed national microchip registry. 

Recent microchip registrations may be affected: 

  • Pets microchipped recently and registered with HomeSafeID may not have had their details fully processed. 
  • Recent applications to transfer the ownership of pets listed on Homesafe ID may also not have been processed. 

Action required for veterinary practices 

  • Review and update your microchip registry provider: 
  • If your clinic uses HomeSafeID, we strongly advise transitioning to an alternate licensed registry immediately. 
  • Some clinics may have purchased microchips from HomeSafeID and be unaware of the issue. These microchips are still able to be implanted but should be registered with a national microchip registry other than HomeSafeID. If your clinic has unused microchips from HomeSafeID, ensure any future registrations go to a licensed registry. 
  • Advise pet owners: 
  • Encourage clients to check their pet’s registration on the HomeSafeID website https://www.homesafeid.com/  while it remains accessible. 
  • Where necessary, provide guidance on transferring records to an alternative registry. 
  • Stay informed: 
  • Monitor updates from your state authority and the AVA. 
  • Ensure your practice has a clear communication plan for pet owners regarding microchip registrations. 

Action required for pet owners 

  • Check your pet’s registration: 
  • If you live in NSW or SA, ensure your pet’s details are correctly recorded in your state’s government-run registry. 
  • Consider transferring to an alternative registry: 
  • If you are outside Victoria, Queensland, NSW, or SA, or if you are unsure about HomeSafeID’s future, consult your veterinarian about registering with a licensed alternative national microchip registry. 
  • Check your relevant State or Territory’s government website for a list of licensed microchip registries. 
  • Be aware that some states restrict dual registration, so check local guidelines before making changes. 

How to change your pet’s microchip registration 

  • Find out where your pet’s microchip details are stored by visiting petaddress.com.au. 
  • Log in to or contact the relevant registry and confirm the details are correct. 
  • Apply to register your pet with a licensed microchip registry provider. Your veterinarian can help guide you on which registries are available and compliant with your state’s regulations. Most veterinarians can help by registering your pet with an alternative Microchip Registry, using the existing Microchip, for a small fee. 
  • Importantly: there is no need for your pet to be microchipped again. 

The AVA will continue monitoring this situation and provide updates as more information becomes available. 

Please share this update with colleagues and clients to ensure pets remain traceable and their microchip data secure. 

Draft Australian Standards on Electronic Animal Identification: have your say 

Australian Standards are currently consulting on standards relating to microchipping companion animals and horses.  

Australian Standards are currently consulting on standards relating to microchipping companion animals and horses. A number of AVA members have been working with Standards Australia on the updating, and both these members and the AVA encourage members to make their own submissions in support of the proposed changes.  

The key changes are: 

  • To only use implantable microchips (and other RFID devices) fully conformant with the relevant ISO standards. Full conformance guarantees number uniqueness as well as the quality and performance of the implant itself. 
  • A revised definition of a “scan” to increase the likelihood of a microchip being detected. 
  • The need for all those dealing with strays to maintain access to transceivers (readers) capable of reading older (FDXA) technologies. 
  • Decreasing the acceptable failure rate of microchips from 1:1000 to 1: 10,000. 
  • The importance of correct implantation technique to minimise microchip migration. 
  • The responsibility of the implanter to register the animal and all required information with an Australian microchip registry, registered to operate in the State r Territory in which the animal resides. 
  • That the fee charged by the implanter should include lifetime registration on the registry to which information about the implanted dog or cat has been sent. 
  • The need for an accessible chain of ownership for the microchip, from manufacture to the animal in which it is implanted, including importer, distributor, wholesaler, seller, implanter and animal owner. 
  • Revised and updated requirements for the operation of microchip databases. 

Canine leptospirosis update for NSW for 2024 

An update on canine leptospirosis cases in 2024 in NSW, including an update on vaccination recommendations. 

IV Fluids shortage 

As the IV fluid shortage remains an ongoing challenge for veterinary practices across the country, the AVA encourages veterinarians to review the resources provided on the AVA’s Member Alert IV fluids page, as well as continue to assess the safety, sterility, and regulatory considerations of any alternative products they use in clinical settings. 

Antimicrobial Prescribing Guidelines  

  • Equine prescribing guidelines are still with last author review, targeting a March completion.   
  • Extensive Beef guidelines to commence once equine is completed.  

Live sheep export transition   

Participation in a preliminary briefing on upcoming co-design workshops to be held with stakeholders in WA.   

  • Briefing was held to advise peak industry bodies of the process and timeline, and to assist in selection of suitable organisational nominees.   
  • Nominations have been sought from the SCGV and ACV to attend the workshops on behalf of AVA.  

PetFAST reporting system  

There are two open cases at present undergoing investigation by the manufacturers. We await news from the next meeting of the Agriculture Senior Officials Committee (AGSOC) in which we hope they will make a final decision on the regulatory options for pet food provided by the Pet Food Working Group. 

Public Affairs and Advocacy:  

South Australian Parliamentary Inquiry into the Mental Health and Wellbeing of Veterinarians. 

In late 2024 the SA Parliament established an Inquiry into the Mental Health and Wellbeing of Veterinarians in South Australia. The Parliamentary Committee is inviting submissions. The AVA is making a formal submission and also encourages members to make their own. 

The terms of reference for the Inquiry are: 

  • quantifying the significant economic, social and emotional benefits that veterinary industry brings to society and having this acknowledged by government and industry; 
  • measures that can be taken to improve veterinarian retention rates, including incentives for working in rural and regional areas; 
  • working conditions, including remuneration, unpaid hours, safe workplace cultural and client conduct standards; 
  • measuring and identifying initiatives to prevent the high rates of suicide and burnout among veterinarians, particularly in regional and rural areas; 
  • the role played by veterinarians in providing care to lost, stray, and homeless animals and injured wildlife, dealing with emergency situations, and the financial burden incurred by veterinarians in those circumstances; 
  • reviewing the roles and responsibilities of veterinary nurses with a view to relieving pressure on veterinarians, as well as the training of veterinary nurses and the related workforce; 
  • regulation of veterinary practices, including compliance with psychosocial legislation for the workplace, maximum work hours and after-hours practices; 
  • strategies to improve access to veterinary care during a cost-of-living crisis, including pricing transparency, pet insurance, and other support for disadvantaged animal owners; 
  • the role of universities in preparing veterinarians for practice and the transition to the workforce; and  
  • any related matter. 

AVA Submission on NSW Animal Welfare Regulations 

The AVA has once again demonstrated its commitment to advancing animal welfare and the essential role of veterinarians in welfare discussions through its submission to the NSW Draft Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2025. 

The AVA has once again demonstrated its commitment to advancing animal welfare and the essential role of veterinarians in welfare discussions through its submission to the NSW Draft Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2025. 

The submission highlights the importance of evidence-based, humane approaches to animal care and urges the NSW Government to align the new regulations with AVA policies and National Standards for a consistent, science-backed approach to animal welfare. 

The AVA submission emphasises that regulations should move beyond basic needs, instead aiming to ensure animals enjoy a "good life." This includes providing environments that encourage natural behaviours, offer safety and comfort, and promote physical and mental wellbeing. A focus of the submission is the recognition of animals as sentient beings—capable of experiencing complex emotions such as pain, fear, and pleasure. This approach aligns with both contemporary science and growing community expectations about how animals are treated. 

The AVA calls for harmonisation across jurisdictions. We believe that consistent, enforceable regulations safeguard animal welfare and help maintain the social licence of animal-based industries, promoting sustainable and humane practices. 

Veterinary professionals play a critical role in this process, bringing decades of scientific knowledge and practical expertise to the table. The AVA will continue to advocate for contemporary animal welfare based regulations and veterinarians' essential role in welfare discussions.   

NSW stray animal management  

AVA met with Blacktown Council Mayor, Blacktown Animal Rehoming Centre (BARC), and local Veterinary Practices. The meeting discussed the challenges and issues experienced by veterinary practices with BARC primarily regarding collecting strays and funding veterinary treatments for injured strays. Good outcomes with BARC committing to developing protocols to address all issues raised.  

AVA submission to Tasmania Dog Welfare Regulations reform 

AVA policies and subject matter expertise were utilised to advocate for changes that prioritise humane, evidence-based standards and practices. The submission highlighted the need for aligning regulations with contemporary science, emphasising animal welfare as a key priority. 

The AVA provided a submission to the Tasmanian Government for their consultation on the reform of dog welfare regulations. AVA policies and subject matter expertise were utilised to advocate for changes that prioritise humane, evidence-based standards and practices. The submission highlighted the need for aligning regulations with contemporary science, emphasising animal welfare as a key priority. Key recommendations included limits on the number of breeding dogs should be informed by scientific evidence to adopt tailored breeder classifications based on operational specifics, also the supporting of mandatory breeder registration along with harmonised microchipping requirements to enhance traceability and combat puppy farming. The AVA also called for evidence-based protocols developed in consultation with veterinarians around the breeding of dogs with heritable welfare issues. Further recommendations focused on promoting humane and regulated training methods, alternatives to electric collars, and clear tethering rules, alongside breeder housing standards aligned with the “Five Domains of Animal Welfare” to prioritise positive outcomes rather than mere compliance. The importance of adequately resourced regulation and enforcement to ensure these reforms translate into meaningful impacts was also emphasised. 

The AVA’s submission recognised this reform as a pivotal opportunity for Tasmania to lead in animal welfare legislation. By embedding the principles of sentience and aligning with the “Five Domains of Animal Welfare”, these regulations can serve as a model across Australia. 

Calling All AVA Members: Contribute to Victoria's Biosecurity Legislation Consultation  

The Victorian Government is seeking public input to strengthen its biosecurity legislation, aiming to enhance protections for agriculture, public health, animal welfare, and market access. This consultation represents a key opportunity for our community to influence policies that directly affect our profession and the broader ecosystem.   

The Victorian Government is seeking public input to strengthen its biosecurity legislation, aiming to enhance protections for agriculture, public health, animal welfare, and market access. This consultation represents a key opportunity for our community to influence policies that directly affect our profession and the broader ecosystem. 

Why Your Input Matters 

As veterinary professionals, we hold unique expertise in tackling biosecurity challenges and implementing solutions. Our insights are vital in shaping legislation that is both effective and practical. By contributing to this consultation, we can ensure the veterinary community's perspectives are heard, paving the way for strong and inclusive biosecurity measures. 

Key Areas for Feedback 

While all feedback is valuable, we particularly encourage members to focus on areas where veterinary expertise is critical: 

  • Disease Prevention and Control: Do the proposed measures adequately address disease prevention and management in animals? 
  • Wildlife Biosecurity: Are the provisions related to interactions between domestic animals and wildlife sufficient to mitigate risks? 
  • Infection Control Protocols: Do the proposed frameworks align with best practices and remain feasible across different veterinary settings? 

Have your say on the WA Veterinary Practice Amendment Draft Regulations 

AVA lodges submission on Draft WA Veterinary Practice Amendment Regulations 

Regulating all animal health service providers, including veterinarians, paraprofessionals, and non-veterinary practitioners, is essential to ensuring animal welfare and consumer protection. The AVA has lodged a submission in response to the Western Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) draft Veterinary Practice Amendment Regulations (VPAR), highlighting key concerns about the proposed regulatory framework. 

The AVA acknowledged the intent of the draft regulations to improve oversight of veterinary practice in Western Australia. However, significant concerns were raised regarding the apparent regulatory imbalance between registered veterinarians and non-veterinarians who are authorised to perform acts of veterinary medicine. The proposed VPAR introduce a disproportionate increase in regulatory burdens for veterinarians while allowing non-veterinarians to conduct veterinary procedures without equivalent oversight. This inconsistency raises serious issues related to risk management, animal welfare, and professional accountability. 

The AVA's submission emphasises that acts of veterinary medicine should be performed by registered veterinarians to maintain high standards of animal welfare and consumer protection. Where non-veterinarians are authorised to undertake veterinary procedures, they must be appropriately trained, licensed, and subject to strong regulatory oversight. The AVA is particularly concerned that the draft regulations weaken these principles, particularly in large animal practice, where non-veterinarians may be permitted to perform procedures without adequate supervision or safeguards. Such an approach risks lowering animal welfare standards for production animals compared to companion animals. 

Another key issue raised in the submission is the shift from a professional discretion-based model to a compliance-heavy regulatory framework. Veterinary professionals manage risks through their education, training, and professional judgement. However, the proposed VPAR contain a prescriptive approach that increases administrative burdens without clear benefits to animal welfare. This model contrasts with best practices in other health professions, where professional discretion remains integral to effective service delivery. 

The AVA's submission also highlights additional concerns, including: 

  • The lack of clarity around the legal and professional liabilities of veterinarians supervising non-veterinarians; 
  • The potential economic impact of increased regulatory requirements on veterinary service accessibility, particularly in rural and remote areas; 
  • The importance of a regulatory model that supports service provision and workforce sustainability rather than imposing restrictive oversight. 

The AVA strongly urges DPIRD to reconsider aspects of the draft VPAR that impose unnecessary regulatory burdens on veterinarians while failing to ensure adequate oversight for non-veterinarians performing veterinary procedures. A balanced approach, incorporating professional accountability and outcome-based regulation, is essential to maintaining high animal welfare standards and supporting the veterinary profession. 

The AVA's submission provides a detailed analysis and recommendations to ensure that veterinary regulations in Western Australia align with best practices in veterinary medicine and uphold the highest standards of animal welfare. The AVA remains committed to working collaboratively to refine these regulations in a way that supports veterinary professionals, safeguards animal welfare, and maintains public trust in the profession. 

The full AVA submission can be found here. 

What could the proposed changes mean? 

Changes proposed in the draft Regulations include granting the WA Veterinary Practice Board extended powers to authorise individuals to perform acts of veterinary medicine, and other procedures are proposed to no longer be classified as acts of veterinary medicine. The proposed changes represent a shift in regulatory oversight, with potential far-reaching implications including risks to animal health and welfare, human safety, and the viability of veterinary businesses. 

The following have been identified as areas for consideration in the draft Regulations: 

Unregulated supervision and deregulation risks 

  • There is no legislative requirement for a "supervising vet" when individuals are authorised by the Board to perform veterinary procedures, which could lead to non-veterinarians conducting veterinary acts without proper oversight. 
  • The proposed changes introduce authorised non-veterinarians’ ability to “Giving advice or instruction in relation to the medical or surgical treatment of a particular animal or particular group of animals” in addition to “Diagnosis of diseases or physiological conditions in, or injuries to, animals.” 
  • While some aspects of veterinary practice are being deregulated, others—such as veterinary clinical records—face highly prescriptive and onerous new requirements, adding unnecessary administrative burdens. 

Expanded access to regulated medications 

  • The amendments would allow "authorised persons" to carry and administer medications which would include anti-inflammatories and local anaesthetics. 

Recognition of Advanced Veterinary Nurse 

  • Advanced Veterinary Nurses are a proposed new category (prescribed class) of veterinary nurse who have the skills, training, experience and competence to carry out more advanced procedures, under prescribed levels of supervision by a veterinarian. 
  • These procedures would include; performing cat castrations, euthanasia of wildlife, administering a nerve block/local anaesthesia, ultrasound guided cystocentesis. 

Strengthening Advocacy and Collaboration: NT AVA Division Annual Meeting 

At the NT AVA Division Annual Meeting on 23 February 2025, held in conjunction with the NT AVA Division Conference, AVA Senior Advocacy Officer Dr Robyn Whitaker delivered a comprehensive presentation on AVA’s advocacy efforts in 2024 and key priorities for 2025.   

The presentation highlighted AVA’s ongoing work in policy and advocacy, with a strong focus on sustaining Australia’s veterinary workforce, securing public good funding, and influencing legislative reforms. Key achievements in the NT included contributions to the NT Animal Welfare Legislation Review, engagement with the NT Veterinary Board (NTVB) on veterinary services access, and input into the national report on emergency animal disease veterinary response capacity. 

Dr Rob Williams, NT Chief Veterinary Officer and President of the NTVB, also addressed the meeting, expressing a strong interest in further strengthening engagement between the AVA and the NTVB.  

This commitment to collaboration signals positive steps towards addressing key issues facing the veterinary profession in the NT. 

AVA white paper on the veterinary workforce   

The paper will be used to trigger discussions and meetings and build support from external stakeholder groups.   

Stakeholder Engagement:  

External stakeholder meetings and other engagement, included: 

AVA engages with Queensland Minister for Primary Industries  

Thursday’s meeting with the Minister covered critical issues affecting veterinarians and animal health services across the state, with the Minister acknowledging the contribution of North Queensland veterinarians in flood response and recovery efforts.  

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) met with the Queensland Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett MP, to discuss critical issues affecting veterinarians and animal health services across the state. Representing the AVA were Dr Regan Lynch, AVA Queensland Division President, and Graham Pratt, AVA National Manager – Advocacy. With the change of government late last year, it is important that the AVA build strong relationships with the new government. 

The discussion covered 3 key topics: 

  1. Veterinary Workforce and Regional Support 

The AVA stressed the urgent need for a National Veterinary Workforce Plan to address the challenges faced by the profession, particularly in regional areas of Queensland. Ensuring adequate support for veterinary students and recent graduates was a focal point, with emphasis on incentives to attract and retain professionals in rural and remote communities. The Minister acknowledged these concerns and recognised the essential role veterinarians play in maintaining animal health and biosecurity. 

2. Review of the Queensland Veterinary Services Act 

The AVA highlighted the need to review and modernise the Queensland Veterinary Surgeons Act to reflect the evolving landscape of veterinary practice. Updating legislative frameworks will ensure veterinarians can continue to deliver high-quality services efficiently and effectively. Minister Perrett expressed openness to exploring legislative improvements. 

3. Response to North Queensland Floods 

With recent severe flooding in North Queensland, the AVA underscored the importance of veterinary support in disaster response and recovery efforts, along with the impact that the floods have on local veterinary practices. Veterinarians play a crucial role in managing the health and welfare of livestock during such crises. The Minister, who had just returned from flood affected areas, acknowledged this contribution and discussed potential measures to enhance veterinary involvement in disaster preparedness and response. 

Throughout the meeting, Minister Perrett was highly receptive to the AVA’s concerns, recognising the pivotal role of veterinarians, particularly in biosecurity and animal welfare. The AVA will continue to collaborate with government stakeholders to advance these priorities and advocate for the profession’s needs. 

AVA returns to Canberra to advocate for investment for the veterinary sector   

An update from AVA President Dr Sally Colgan on a highly productive trip that spanned multiple portfolios, electorates and both sides of parliament, demonstrating how deeply embedded vets are in Australia communities and industries. 

This week, alongside Melissa King and Graham Pratt from the AVA team, I was in Canberra for the first sitting of Federal Parliament for 2025. Over the course of two highly productive days, we met with key decision-makers to highlight critical issues and advocate for urgently needed investment in the veterinary sector. 

The challenges facing our profession—financial pressures, workforce shortages, unsustainable workloads, lack of government support for rural and regional vets, and the high cost of veterinary education—are well known to our members and hinder veterinarians from doing what they do best: caring for animals and supporting our communities. This is why the AVA's 2025 Federal Election priorities and 2025 pre-budget submission are so crucial—they present tangible solutions to create a more sustainable future for veterinarians across Australia. 

The conversations in Canberra were productive, providing an opportunity for strong, meaningful engagement with policymakers who recognise the essential role of veterinarians. Our meetings spanned many different portfolios, electorates and both sides of parliament, demonstrating how deeply embedded vets are in Australian communities and industries. We had valuable discussions with the Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Senator the Hon Murray Watt; Member for Indi, Dr Helen Haines MP; Member for Hunter, Mr Dan Repacholi MP; and Jonathan Maran, Policy Advisor to Senator Hollie Hughes, Shadow Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. 

A special thanks to Leader of the Nationals and Shadow Minister for Agriculture, the Hon. David Littleproud MP, for his continued support of the veterinary profession. His recognition of the vital role veterinarians play in protecting Australia’s food supply chain and biosecurity is greatly appreciated. 

We will continue to work hard on your behalf, strengthening our Federal parliamentary connections, to secure the investment and funding the profession so desperately needs. We look forward to keeping you updated on our progress. 
 
TAKE ACTION: 
- Contact your local Member of Parliament, Senator or Candidate. 
- Share your story – your personal experiences are invaluable. 
- Spread the word! Share these priorities with your networks and tag your local candidate. 

Federal Government’s live export transition assistance program 

In October 2024, the Federal Government announced a transition package of $139.7 million for the phase out of live sheep exports by sea. The package includes $45.5 million for programs to be co-designed with the industry to assist sheep producers and the associated supply chain in preparing for the phase out. AVA has been invited to nominate representatives to participate in the co-design workshops.  

In October 2024, the Federal Government announced a transition package of $139.7 million for the phase out of live sheep exports by sea. The package includes $45.5 million for programs to be co-designed with the industry to assist sheep producers and the associated supply chain in preparing for the phase out. 

AVA has been invited to nominate representatives to participate in the co-design workshops. Facilitated by DAFF, these workshops will help to inform the government about the delivery of programs to ensure sheep producers and the supply chain prepare for the phase out of live sheep exports by sea when trade ends in 2028. 

AVA was invited to nominate 2 or 3 members to participate in the co-design workshops held at locations across Western Australia or online. The workshops will focus on the sheep meat trade logistics in WA (such as transitioning sheep flock genetics and nutrition to fit the local sheep meat trade, cropping and on-farm containment feeding, additional markets, and abattoir capacity for additional sheep processing).  The ban's merits and the live export trade are not in scope. 

AVA consulted with the SCGV and ACV SIGs to identify and nominate the most appropriate attendees. AVA has also spoken with AVAWE and the WA Division to inform them of the DAFF workshops. 

Once all the co-design workshops have been completed, a report of the findings and recommendations will be drafted and shared with representatives from the supply chain for validation and input. 

Upon finalisation of the validation process, the report will be shared with the government. It will inform the government's consideration of how transition funding can best be allocated to support the industry through the transition. 

From there, the government will agree on final programs, with programs expected to open in the 2025–26 financial year. 

Engaging Meeting with QLD Assistant Minister for DPI 

AVA representatives met this week with Queensland Assistant Minister for Primary Industries, Sean Dillon, to discuss key challenges and opportunities for the veterinary profession in Queensland. 

AVA representatives met this week with Queensland Assistant Minister for Primary Industries, Sean Dillon, to discuss key challenges and opportunities for the veterinary profession in Queensland. The meeting highlighted the government's strong recognition of veterinarians' critical contributions to agriculture, biosecurity, and animal welfare across the state. 

Discussions focused on the veterinary workforce shortage, with proposals including HECS fee relief for regional veterinarians and funding for student placements in rural areas —both aligning with government initiatives to strengthen regional DPI capacity. Other key topics included emergency animal disease preparedness and ensuring the sustainability of the veterinary profession. 

The AVA will continue advancing these priorities in an upcoming meeting with the Queensland Minister for Primary Industries. This work demonstrates the AVA's steadfast commitment to building a sustainable future for veterinary professionals in Queensland. 

EOI open for AVA representative on National Industry Advisory Group for Veterinary Nursing  

If you have an interest in representing and promoting the profession of veterinary nursing, submit your EOI.  

EOI for veterinary representative on ACT Animal Welfare Advisory Committee 

The role presents a unique opportunity for a dedicated and passionate veterinarian to actively contribute to animal welfare in the ACT. 

EOI - Appointments to the Veterinary Practice Board of WA  

The AVA WA Division Committee are calling for Expressions of Interest for registered WA Veterinarians to recommend persons suitable for appointment to the Veterinary Practice Board (VPB) of WA. 

Jobs and Skills Australia Report Recognises Critical Role of Veterinarians in Australia’s Food Supply Chain 

Jobs and Skills Australia released their report focusing on Australia’s Food Production, Manufacturing Transport and Distribution industries, the report includes an entire section dedicated to the veterinary workforce. It acknowledges the essential role of veterinarians in Australia’s food supply chain, recognises the many challenges facing the profession and calls for the government to “invest in sustainable veterinary and biosecurity workforce pathways.” The report’s key recommendations echo the AVA's 2025 Federal Election priorities for urgent action to strengthen and support Australia’s veterinary workforce.  

 The prominence of the veterinary sector in the report highlights the impact of AVA’s advocacy efforts, and the support of government and industry stakeholders. 

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) welcomes the release of the Jobs and Skills Australia report ‘An Essential Ingredient: The Food Supply Chain Workforce’ which highlights the critical role of veterinarians in Australia’s food supply chain. 

The report is a strong endorsement and recognition of the role of veterinarians in Australia’s food supply. “Veterinarians are essential to the health and welfare of production animals, food security, biosecurity, trade access, and productivity of animal industries,” AVA President Dr Sally Colgan said. 

The 266-page report makes 41 recommendations, 5 of which directly relate to the veterinary workforce. 

Dr Colgan said “The veterinary profession has been experiencing an ongoing workforce shortage for over 8 years. At a practical level, this means that Australia does not have the vets it needs to deliver essential veterinary care." 

The AVA’s 2025 Federal Election priorities align with the report’s recommendations, emphasising the urgency of addressing veterinary workforce shortages and supporting veterinary students. Key recommendations in the report include: 

  • Including veterinary students in the Commonwealth Prac Payment scheme 
  • Developing a National Veterinary Workforce Strategy 
  • Reviewing veterinary nursing skills standards for potential mandatory registration 
  • Reassessing funding for veterinary science courses to reduce reliance on cross-subsidisation 
  • Supporting a National Biosecurity Workforce Strategy. 

The report’s recommendation to include veterinary students in the Commonwealth Prac Payment scheme mirrors the AVA’s work to strengthen and support the veterinary workforce for the benefit of all Australians.  Dr Colgan noted, “Placement poverty disproportionately affects veterinary students. Supporting them is critical to sustaining the profession, which is as essential to our communities as healthcare and education.” 

With over a decade of advocacy for improved veterinary workforce data and planning, the AVA contributed significantly to the report through research and expertise. 

The AVA is committed to working with stakeholders to implement these recommendations to ensure the critical role veterinarians fill across our industries and communities, continues. “This report offers a roadmap to help strengthen the veterinary profession and its vital role in Australia’s food supply chain,” Dr Colgan said. 

Budgeting for a sustainable vet future  

In line with our 2025 Federal Election priorities, the AVA has launched its Pre-Budget Submission, calling for funding to support recent graduates and regional students. 

As the Federal Election draws closer, the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) has launched its Pre-Budget submission calling for funding to support recent graduates and students in regional areas. 

The Government is due to finalise and present its budget in late March (unless an election is announced before then). 

Key elements of the AVA submission include seeking education debt forgiveness for recent graduates committing to work in rural and regional areas. 

Student support is sought by an extension of the Commonwealth Prac Payment support scheme to veterinary students. This would see students receiving $319.50 per week while they are undertaking a placement. 

Funding is also being sought to support the AVA THRIVE program. 

These initiatives underline the AVA’s commitment to addressing workforce shortages, mental health challenges, and the financial and structural barriers facing the profession. See the full submission here. 

As an AVA member, you can be confident that your association is actively advocating for the recognition and support the veterinary sector deserves. Together, we can ensure a sustainable future for veterinary services and the vital contributions veterinarians make to animals, communities, and Australia’s economy. 

AVA ACT Pre-Budget Submission          

The AVA has provided an ACT 2025/26 Pre-Budget submission on the key priorities facing the veterinary profession.  

The AVA has provided an ACT 2025/26 Pre-Budget submission on the key priorities facing the veterinary profession. Read the full submission here. 

The ACT Government invited the AVA to contribute to the ACT 2025-26 budget process by providing a submission. The AVA welcome the opportunity to highlight the key priorities for the veterinary sector and animal welfare. Additionally, we requested to participate in the Chief Minister, Treasury, and Economic Development Directorate roundtables with peak body organisations in February. 

The AVA is committed to working with the ACT Government to address critical issues outlined in this submission, to ensure the long-term sustainability of the veterinary profession and the continued health and welfare of the ACT’s animals and communities. 

This AVA submission focuses on the critical challenges facing veterinarians in the ACT and provides 9 recommendations across 5 key topics to address these issues effectively. 

AVA Recommendations to the ACT Government are: 

  1. Sustainability of the veterinary workforce 
  • The AVA recommends that the ACT Government provide targeted funding to support veterinary students undertaking clinical placements in the ACT. Specifically, the Government should introduce allowances to cover accommodation and travel costs for students, addressing the financial barriers associated with “placement poverty.” 
  • The AVA recommends that the ACT Government implement an incentive scheme that provides a financial payment to recent graduates who begin their veterinary careers in the ACT region. The incentive would be in two parts, firstly an initial payment that is aimed at supporting the relocation costs incurred by the recent graduate. A second payment would be available once a recent graduate had completed at least five years veterinary practice in the ACT.  

2. Mental health support for the veterinary profession 

  • The AVA recommends that the ACT Government commit to funding ($165,000 over 4 years) to support THRIVE, the AVA’s wellness initiative, which supports ACT veterinarians and veterinary staff to lead satisfying, prosperous and healthy careers. This includes the expansion of a range of existing programs being undertaken by the AVA for the veterinary profession and implementing new programs under the areas of prevent, promote and protect. These bespoke programs, include: 
  • Expand the 24/7 AVA Counselling Service 
  • Cultivating Safe Teams program –Psychological health and safety awareness training sessions for all individuals working in the veterinary profession in the ACT. 
  • Mental health first aid for veterinary teams 

3. Support for veterinary public good activities 

  • The AVA recommends that the ACT Government assumes responsibility for and financially supports the costs incurred by veterinary practices when treating or caring for Crown-owned wildlife and also unowned animals, such as strays. 
  • The AVA recommends that the ACT Government, as part of its biosecurity funding, commit to increased and targeted investment in veterinary services. This should include enhanced support for surveillance and response activities, as well as the delivery of veterinary services that provide significant public good. 
  • The AVA recommends that the ACT Government establish a disaster response and recovery fund to support the provision of veterinary care to animals impacted in natural disasters. 

4. Increased support for ACT government veterinarians 

  • The AVA recommends that the ACT Government conducts a comprehensive review and develop a proactive strategy to support the critical work of our ACT Government veterinarians, who ensure the health of all animals, and maintain our ability to respond effectively to biosecurity threats and animal welfare issues. 

5. Support for veterinary care for persons experiencing vulnerabilities. 

  • The AVA recommends that the ACT Government investigate providing subsidies for veterinary care of low-income earners. 
  • The AVA recommends that the ACT Government provides facilities that are suitable and allow ACT residents experiencing vulnerability, such as fleeing Domestic and Family Violence situations, to take animals in their care with them. 

 AVA 2025 Western Australia Election Priorities  

The AVA has developed and sent to WA Parliamentarians the AVA 2025 WA Election Priorities. AVA Members are encouraged to talk to local MPs and candidates about the issues facing the veterinary profession at this coming WA State election.  

The AVA have developed and sent to WA Parliamentarians the AVA 2025 Western Australia Election Priorities. Read the full election priorities document here. 

The AVA WA 2025 Election Priorities form the basis for AVA advocacy leading into the March 2025 election, meetings with key Ministers, Shadow Ministers, and MPs, and future advocacy post the WA election. 

The AVA WA Division Committee has identified key priorities and recommendations for the upcoming election and urges the next State Government to support and address the following critical areas: 

  1. Rural and Regional Veterinary Workforce Support 
  2. Support for Veterinary Students 
  3. Supporting the Public Good Provided by Veterinarians 
  4. Mental Health Support for Veterinary Professionals 
  5. Legislative Reviews to Reduce Regulatory Burdens on Veterinarians 

THRIVE Wellness Program:

As we prepare to commence the next phase of THRIVE’s Cultivating Safe Team (CST) pilot program, we are seeking expressions of interest for the “Train-the-Trainer” program. This important training will provide participants with the skills to lead their peers through the CST psychological health and safety awareness program. Spaces are limited so please register your interest as soon as possible. 

THRIVE Symposium associated with AVA National Conference in Sydney on Monday 12th May. 

Data:

  • Submissions (from webpage) = 4 
  • Get Involved opportunities (from webpage) = 10 
  • External stakeholder engagement (meetings on AAR) = 9 
  • Media Releases (from webpage) = 2