AVA Calls for Urgent Action on Veterinary Mental Health in National Review

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) has submitted a comprehensive review to the Productivity Commission on the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement (NMHSPA). This submission highlights the urgent need to recognise veterinarians and their teams as a high-risk group, given their significantly higher suicide rates compared to the general population.

To address these challenges, the AVA has developed the THRIVE Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Framework, which provides tailored support for veterinary professionals. The AVA's key recommendations to the Productivity Commission include:

• Formally recognising veterinary professionals as a high-risk cohort under the NMHSPA.
• Integrating AVA-led research and programs into workforce sustainability strategies.
• Ensuring veterinarians are represented in broader health and social system initiatives, such as regional mental health taskforces.
• Implementing accountability measures to track improvements in veterinary mental health and suicide prevention outcomes.

Strengthening mental health resources for veterinarians and their teams will not only improve their wellbeing but also enhance animal welfare, safeguard Australia’s biosecurity, and positively impact public health by ensuring a stable and resilient veterinary workforce.