AVA Member Updates

The AVA is looking for a recent graduate (ideally within the past 3-5 years) involved in small animal practice to joining its Chartered Veterinary Practitioner (CVP) Education Committee.

Zenrelia™ (active ingredient = ilunocitinib) is Elanco’s innovative JAK inhibitor that provides fast and sustained itch relief in a simple once-daily tablet. From day one, Zenrelia provides effective itch relief without the need for loading doses or tapering.3 This straightforward dosing supports pet owner compliance and sets a new standard for convenient, long-term itch management.

The AVA welcomes the ACT Draft Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs and proposes practical, evidence-based refinements - centred on clear standards, positive-reinforcement training, sensible tethering and temperature safeguards, and better identification and traceability.

The AVA’s submission on the Victorian Domestic Animals Regulations 2025 calls for clear, practical reforms that enhance animal welfare, improve traceability, and reduce unnecessary burdens on veterinarians, following earlier face-to-face consultation with government.

As Australia celebrates National Biosecurity Week (25-31 August), the AVA is pleased to announce the September issue of the Australian Veterinary Journal (AVJ) will focus on biosecurity, a topic central to Australia’s position as a major global food exporter.

The AVA has been actively advocating for a review of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1936 - legislation that is now almost 90 years old and no longer reflects the modern veterinary profession or its needs.

As Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer (ACVO), I have the privilege of working alongside a team of dedicated professionals in the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry who are committed to protecting our nation’s animal health and biosecurity.

The AVA has released updated Pet Insurance Guidelines to support members when discussing pet insurance options with clients, while meeting their legal obligations under the Corporations Act and Veterinary Practice regulations.

This is a voluntary recall notice issued by the APVMA