AVA Vic Division Committee President Update

It was a privilege to chair my first AVA Victoria Division Committee meeting as President this week.

What stood out most was the breadth of work underway — and the strong sense of support across the Division for veterinarians working in all areas of practice.

We had productive discussions across several key areas:

• Branch engagement, including a new “Shape Your Branch” initiative to make it easier for members to connect, learn, and organise local events — with a focus on creating more accessible opportunities for involvement. 
• Policy and advocacy, with upcoming national policy reviews spanning animal welfare, artificial intelligence in veterinary practice, and emergency disease preparedness — alongside encouraging broader member input into policy development
• Biosecurity and emerging disease risks, including updates on foot-and-mouth disease preparedness and the importance of coordinated response planning between government and private practices. 
• Regulatory reform, particularly medicines and poisons legislation, and ongoing engagement with government on practical, profession-aligned solutions
• Workforce and future pipeline, including support for an application to the Livestock Biosecurity Fund to explore sustainable pathways for encouraging veterinary graduates into production animal practice

Across these areas, there was a clear focus on strengthening how the Division supports students and early career veterinarians — from increasing opportunities to participate in Branch activities, to greater visibility and involvement in Division Committee work, and ensuring their voices are represented in policy and advocacy.

Importantly, this work is not happening in isolation. It reflects a coordinated effort between the Division, AVA national teams, and a wide network of contributors who continue to advocate for and support the profession.

Thank you to all committee members and contributors for your time, insight, and ongoing commitment.

I’m looking forward to building on this momentum together.

With the AVA National Conference in Brisbane approaching, I’d strongly encourage colleagues to consider attending — it’s a valuable opportunity to connect, learn, and contribute to the broader direction of the profession. 

If there are ideas, perspectives, or areas where you feel the Division can better support you, please don’t hesitate to reach out via publicvetaffairs@ava.com.au.

Warm regards,

Suff
Dr Suff Suharju BVSc (Hons) PG Dip BA MAICD