First practices achieve Employer of Choice Accreditation

_{Dr Brian Anderson from Ballarat Veterinary Practice accepts an EOC Accreditation plaque from outgoing AVA President Dr Warwick Vale.}

Last year, the AVA launched Employer of Choice (EOC) Accreditation to complement the Employer of Choice (EOC) Program. The AVA are very excited to announce the first practices to achieve EOC Accreditation.

In April 2022, Ballarat Veterinary Practice (BVP) in Victoria achieved EOC accreditation, including Ballarat Veterinary Practice, Ballarat Veterinary Practice - Equine Clinic, Wendouree Veterinary Clinic, Lucas Veterinary Clinic, Eureka Veterinary Hospital and Mt Clear Vets.

In May 2022, Fletcher Veterinary Practice in NSW achieved EOC Accreditation.

Being AVA EOC Accredited is an accomplishment awarded to practices in recognition for being a leading employer within the veterinary profession by meeting the national employment quality standards for recruitment, engagement and retention. The EOC accreditation process is rigorous and assesses each practice's internal HR practices, policies and procedures via an external, independent audit.

BVP’s Human Resources Manager Claire McAteer, who calls the process “incredibly rewarding", says, “The AVA’s Employer of Choice program sets out the components of a modern, healthy and supportive workplace … We thoroughly recommend and endorse the AVA’s Employer of Choice program to other practices, and we really hope it results in a stronger working environment across the whole veterinary industry.”  They have recorded a video of their EOC program and accreditation journey here:

Dr Brian Anderson from Ballarat Veterinary Practice and Dr Gin Ng from Fletcher Veterinary Practice were both presented plaques at the 2022 AVA Annual Conference. They will hold the EOC Accredited status for four years.