VIC Melbourne University – Proposed changes to U-Vet Animal Hospital

Yesterday, ahead of the general notification, Australian Veterinary Association was informed of proposed changes to veterinary education at the University of Melbourne including the proposed changes to the operation of the U-Vet Animal Hospital at Werribee.

We understand that many members will have heard about this in the past 24 hours and will have a range of concerns. It is important that the University communicates clearly with the profession, staff and student body.

The AVA has been in communication with the University and will continue to do so as consultation on these proposals progresses. We are looking to play a role in promoting and assisting consultation with the profession by the University (including planning a webinar for members to hear directly from the University). We encourage veterinarians to share their questions, thoughts and concerns with the University.

We are particularly concerned at the potential loss of a university teaching hospital and the impact on the profession.

The delivery of veterinary education is expensive and Government needs to understand that the erosion of funding for veterinary education will have an impact on the availability and ongoing viability of veterinary services in Australia – compounding an existing shortage of veterinarians.