AVA responds to NHMRC Code Review preparation

The AVA has provided a response to the NHMRC survey for the review of the Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes. This early engagement helps inform NHMRC’s preparation for a broader public consultation expected later in 2026.

The AVA’s input was informed by subject matter experts from across the profession and focuses on strengthening veterinary leadership in animal welfare, research and teaching settings.

Key points raised by the AVA include:

• Stronger veterinary oversight with active, physical presence proportional to animal numbers and procedure severity.
• Clearer “Programs of Veterinary Care” with minimum standards for facility veterinarian resourcing and responsibilities.
• Improved guidance for Animal Ethics Committees (AECs) on monitoring, escalation of welfare concerns and resourcing veterinary expertise.
• Clarity on use of privately owned animals in professional training and wet labs.
• Better transparency and reporting, including national data collection.
• Post-mortem and rehoming protocols to protect animal welfare at their end of use.
• Safeguards for offshore projects and a One Welfare approach to ensure Australian standards apply regardless of location.

The AVA also supported parts of the Code aligned with contemporary veterinary practice, particularly around anaesthesia, analgesia, surgery and post-procedural care, noting these depend on meaningful veterinary oversight.

When the NHMRC releases the full consultation, the AVA will invite wide member input to inform a comprehensive AVA submission.

The AVA’s full input can be found here.