AVA Member Updates

The AVA is working alongside government and local partners to support animal welfare during a challenging and evolving situation. While there has been minimal impact on livestock, horses and companion animals, unfortunately, extensive mortality has been confirmed among seabirds and marine species.

A challenging start to 2026 has seen veterinarians facing growing pressures, particularly around fuel access and rising costs, with the AVA actively advocating to ensure the profession is recognised as an essential service in any fuel initiatives. Amid these challenges, the strength of the veterinary community continues to shine through events, partnerships and member engagement, with opportunities ahead to connect, contribute and shape the future of the profession.

Osteoarthritis is increasingly recognised as a significant cause of chronic pain in cats, yet it remains widely underdiagnosed in clinical practice.

Managing canine stress and anxiety during vet visits and supporting confinement compliance following surgery remains one of the most persistent challenges in small animal practice.

The April to June quarter is an advantageous time of year for veterinarians considering a vehicle upgrade - and with the right finance in place, the process can be simpler than you might expect.

The AVA has been advocating for veterinarians to be recognised as essential services and included in any fuel access and affordability measures.

The AVA’s submission to the Independent Review into Financial Sustainability and Governance of RWWA emphasises that animal welfare is a fundamental and inseparable component of effective racing governance and a key determinant of the industry’s long-term sustainability and social licence to operate.

You are invited to attend the 2026 AVA Queensland Division Annual Meeting. Information on the work of the AVA at State and National level will be provided, with an opportunity to provide member feedback. We look forward to your participation.

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) has lodged a submission to the Skills Insight review of the Veterinary Nursing Training Package, highlighting the critical role veterinary nurses play in delivering high-quality animal care within veterinarian-led teams.

The AVA Board met on 26 February 2026 to consider key strategic, operational and governance matters. Discussions focused on implementation of the new membership model, technology investment, advocacy priorities and continued delivery of the 2025–2028 Strategic Plan. The Board also considered a range of governance and organisational matters including director elections and remuneration, risk management, disaster response and stakeholder engagement across the profession.