AVA Advocacy Forum meeting 28 August 2024

The AVA Advocacy Forum held a meeting on 28 August 2024, to discuss several key issues and updates related to the veterinary profession. The Advocacy Forum includes representatives of all AVA Divisions and Special Interest Groups. It meets quarterly to discuss emerging issues and provide feedback on the AVA's advocacy work.

Dr Sally Colgan was introduced as the new Chair of the Advocacy Forum. The Forum also welcomed changes to the AVA staff team, including Dr Alice Marshall's introduction and the creation of a new Public Affairs and Advocacy team designed to better communicate and leverage the AVA's advocacy efforts.

Key discussion points included feedback from the AVA member survey on priority advocacy issues, the 2025 draft federal election priorities, and how the AVA plans to consult with Advocacy Forum representatives, Divisions, and Special Interest Groups (SIGs) moving forward. Topics such as veterinary workforce shortages, mental health initiatives, and funding for public good services were highlighted as priorities. The Forum emphasised the need for clear communication and effective feedback loops among members to ensure timely and relevant input on advocacy matters.

Recent advocacy efforts were also reviewed, including the AVA submission to the NSW Inquiry and participation in the Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer  Roundtable, which focused on national veterinary workforce data and strategies for future-proofing the profession.

The meeting concluded with a discussion of emerging issues and a collaborative session where representatives shared insights on upcoming challenges and opportunities in the veterinary field. Emerging issues included HPAI, scheduling and dispensing regulations, live export, public good concept/vet worth and tools and resources to foster and educate and advocate for the profession.

The next AVA Advocacy Forum meeting date will be announced soon. Members are encouraged to stay engaged and provide feedback on advocacy initiatives through the AVA website and other communication channels. The AVA's Advocacy team can be reached by emailing publicvetaffairs@ava.com.au.