AVA lodges submission to ensure veterinary access to firearms under new legislation

The AVA has lodged a submission to the Committee reviewing the WA Firearms Act 2024, highlighting potential implications for veterinary professionals and animal welfare.

The AVA’s primary concern is that changes from the previous Firearms Act 1973 may inadvertently restrict veterinarians’ access to firearms required for humane euthanasia. Situations such as distressed livestock, injured wildlife, aggressive animals, and emergencies following natural disasters often necessitate the use of firearms where other euthanasia methods are not practical or safe.

The new legislation introduces a “Business Licence” category to replace the former “Corporate Licence,” but it lacks specific reference to veterinary practices. The AVA is calling for veterinary practices and individual registered veterinarians to be explicitly recognised as a prescribed business eligible for this licence. This would ensure veterinarians can access and use firearms—particularly high-powered firearms from Category A and B—where needed, and without overly restrictive conditions on location of use.

The AVA stresses the importance of retaining this capability to prevent unnecessary suffering of animals and to support public safety during critical incidents.

The submission supports the Firearms Act 2024’s goal of promoting responsible firearm use but urges clarification and regulatory amendments to safeguard veterinary capacity to deliver timely and humane euthanasia when required.

The full submission can be viewed here.