SA Vet Legislation debated in State Parliament

The new SA Veterinary Services Bill is currently being debated in State Parliament and is expected to pass within the next month. The AVA strongly supports the passage of this Bill and has been involved (over successive State Governments and Ministers) in the extensive consultations that have been undertaken over the past few years.

The Bill will see the veterinary practice legislation in South Australia modernised and will embed an ongoing transparent and consultative approach of the Veterinary Services Regulatory Board of South Australia. Importantly, it will also see a new requirement that the Chair of the Board be a veterinarian.

While the AVA is happy with the Bill, there are a number of elements that we are seeking amendment to. The Shadow Minister, Hon. Dr Nicola Centofanti, has been working with us on these. These additional amendments, if successful, will:

• Requiring the Minister of the day to consult with the South Australian Division of the AVA on the appointment of veterinarians to the Board.
• Specifically requiring the Board to consult veterinarians and the AVBC on proposed codes, standards or guidelines, and specifies that the adopted versions need to be communicated with the profession within 14 days.
• Specify additional information that needs to be included in the Board’s Annual Reports.
• Enable the licencing of mobile premises and enable the Board to prepare standards for these premises.
• Require panel of assessors that are utilised in Tribunals to be veterinarians.