Is your practice bushfire ready? (Advertorial)

As Australia approaches the 2025 bushfire season, veterinary practices, especially those in high-risk areas, need to prepare for potential disruptions and damage. Bushfires can cause devastating effects not just on your property and safety but also on the continuity of care you provide to animals and the long-term sustainability of your practice.

Even a single fire can lead to extended downtime, temporary closures, or restricted access to your clinic. This may result in client loss, staff turnover, and financial pressure. The good news is that proactive planning can help mitigate these risks.

Pre-season preparation tips:

• Assess your risk: Consult your local fire authority and community to understand your area’s bushfire history and current threat level.
• Develop and practice an evacuation plan: Make sure all staff know warning times, refuge locations, and exit strategies.
• Prepare an emergency kit: Include essential documents, medications, contact details, and basic supplies.
• Back up data offsite: Ensure access to patient records, financial documents, and operational files.
• Maintain an asset register: Keep an up-to-date list of equipment and infrastructure.
• Review your insurance: Make sure your policy covers business interruption and meets your current needs.
• Create a business continuity plan: Outline how you’ll keep operations running or manage closures.
• Build a local support network: Keep a list of nearby tradespeople, suppliers, and emergency contacts.

When a bushfire is imminent:

• Take all warnings seriously, don't delay action.
• Stay updated through local emergency channels.
• Turn off gas and electricity if safe before evacuating.
• Follow your evacuation plan and prioritise safety.

After a bushfire:

• Triage recovery tasks and seek support from staff and the community.
• Monitor government assistance programs for affected businesses.
• Contact your insurance adviser quickly to report losses and start claims.

By taking these steps, you can better protect your practice, your team, and the animals in your care. Preparation is crucial for resilience. For more risk management tips, visit guildinsurance.com.au/riskhq

Don't go it alone, contact Guild today on 1300 810 213 or visit guildne.ws/AVAmember

DISCLAIMER

Insurance issued by Guild Insurance Limited ABN 55 004 538 863, AFSL 233791 and subject to terms, conditions and exclusions. Guild Insurance supports the AVA through the payment of referral fees. This information is of a general nature only. Please refer to the policy wording and policy schedule for details. For more information call 1800 810 213. VET423513 Member vet advertorial – November 10/2025