WA Division President's Update January 2024

Dear WA AVA,

Thank you for being here in 2024.

I am looking forward to kickstarting more conversations about what we need as a profession and an organization. I want you to make the most of your AVA membership and lean into the greatest aspect it offers – the network.

Now more than ever uniting our profession has been integral to sustainability. Linking vets together through the formation of branches is how I see WA AVA moving forward. In this time of high demand for veterinary services, the unnegotiable need to seek sustainability, and an economy that’s not helping either of those, the AVA and professional colleagues are your allies. Please keep an eye out for the Rural Workforce Survey (different to the AVA national workforce survey) which is going to help us identify specifically the shortage of rural vets in WA and where the roadblocks are.

In addition to finding solutions in WA, I am also advocating for vets on the national level surroundings the topic of medicines. You’ve likely seen an email headline or two regarding the TGA proposed changes around the compounding, scheduling and prescribing of medicines. The AVA is working very diligently to ensure the veterinary industry and animal welfare needs are properly vocalized. This is your membership and your professional body at work. Combing through pages legal jargon is hardly anyone’s idea of a good time, but we are doing so for the greater profession, and are grateful for the members that also respond with their feedback and help promote these agendas.

On a fun note I am excited to announce the Southern Branch has been formally established and TWO metro branches are on the horizon. I look forward to seeing more southern and regional vets at our informal gathering in Albany on Sat March 9^th. Exact details to be confirmed, all are welcome.

You can stay tuned for updates through socials, WA AVA division emails and hopefully word of mouth.

Questions, comments, feedback please reach out:

katiekreutz@ava.vet or 0449 105 451