NT Small Business Support resources

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.

Aspects 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)
• All the other pro-bono/reduced costs services (public good) provided by veterinary practices
• And how all the above impacts on the veterinary workforce and it's mental health.

In response to the AVA’s contact, the NT DITT has provided information relating to business, industry and workforce development services. They have a number of programs, including Business Growth and Biz Secure, for which individual veterinary practices would be eligible to access for support in the operation of a business enterprise. To review the funding support available, please refer to the following site: https://nt.gov.au/industry/business-grants-funding

They have also advised that counselling and support services are also provided by the Rural Business Support organisation. Further details about RBS can be found at: https://www.ruralbusinesssupport.org.au/