President's message from Dr Gemma Chuck - June 2025

26 Jun 2025

It’s been a busy and rewarding first month as AVA President, and there has been a lot of activity from members, volunteers and the AVA team. Thank you all for your input as together we shape the future of our association.

AVA Transition Project

Last year’s Stakeholder Survey sent a clear message from our profession: the AVA needs to evolve to stay relevant and better support our members into the future. The AVA Board have listened, and we are committed to making the AVA more inclusive, effective and responsive.

Importantly, these changes are not happening behind closed doors. Your input is critical to guide the association to where it needs to be. We need you to get involved in this change process. We need you to provide feedback, through emails, focus groups and briefings. We need to hear your voice to guide the AVA so that it genuinely supports and reflects the needs of our profession.

We are not changing for the sake of change. We are changing because members have asked us to. But I acknowledge that change can sometimes feel uncomfortable. I encourage you all to engage in this process, to provide clarity on what is being proposed, to express any concerns and to dispel any myths. I am confident that we can work together to ensure the AVA is future-fit, member-led and better equipped to support you through your entire career.

Thank you to everyone who has completed a survey, participated in a focus group, attended a member briefing or sent feedback via email. Your input is essential and has enabled us to create a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions document about the Transition Project – I encourage you to take a look as we progress the Stage 3 Constitution Reforms.

 

What’s Next?

As we work together to modernise our Constitution, I invite you to join me for our 3-part Constitution Reform Townhalls – the first session will be held online tomorrow, Friday 27 June at 12.30pm. Find out more here or register for the first Townhall via this link. This is your opportunity to learn more about the proposed changes and provide your feedback. I appreciate discussing the Constitution may not sound that exciting, but any changes will affect you, regardless of your career stage, and it’s important that your voice is heard. Don’t sit this one out – your voice matters.

 

Drought Resources and NFF Drought Working Group 

With the ongoing drought in southern regions, the Division and SIG Committees have worked with the AVA Advocacy team to develop a comprehensive suite of drought resources. Thank you to those involved in this collaborative effort. If you know of a useful resource that should be included, please let us know.

The AVA participates in the National Farmers’ Federation Drought Working Group which coordinates national efforts and advocates for affected communities. The working group is now planning for the National Drought Forum, which will be held in SA in August. 

 

International Engagement

Earlier this month, AVA Director Dr Geeta Saini represented the AVA Board at the New Zealand Veterinary Association Conference in Wellington, NZ. This was a valuable opportunity to connect with our closest neighbours and share insights.

In late May, fellow Directors Prof James Gilkerson and Dr Mark Schipp were part of a 16-member Australian delegation to the World Organisation for Animal Health 92nd General Session of the World Assembly, led by the Australian Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Beth Cookson.

The AVA Board considered the purpose of our international engagement with the 4 key objectives:

  1. Establish AVA as a leader in the Asia-Pacific region.
  2. Build strong relationships with international partners.
  3. Strengthen our global network to enhance collaboration and awareness.
  4. Benchmark AVA against global veterinary organisations.

We continue to engage collaboratively with our international partners to help frame and guide our activities.

 

Membership Renewal

As the end of the financial year approaches, if you haven’t already done so, please take a few minutes to renew your AVA membership. You will have received your personalised renewal link via email. In response to your feedback, the Board has directed that there be no increase in membership fees for 2025/26 – an early step in the process of delivering more value to members. If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to the Member Services team via members@ava.com.au or 1300 137 309.

Dr Gemma Chuck
AVA President