AVA 2022 federal election platform: Help get the message out

The AVA is encouraging members to talk local MPs and candidates about the issues facing the veterinary profession at this coming federal election.

“We have just launched our Election Platform and need members’ help in getting it in front of their local MPs,” said Dr Cristy Secombe, AVA Head of Veterinary and Public Affairs.

Between now and the Federal Election the AVA is formally meeting with key Ministers, Shadow Ministers, and cross-bench MPs. With the help of members, we can extend our reach out even further.

The 2022 election will prove to be one like no other in recent memory. The disruption and economic cost induced by COVID 19 and climate change will weigh heavily on the election narrative. AVA are calling for all candidates, political parties and ultimately the new government to undertake a bold reform agenda to tackle long-term structural issues in the animal health sector that have been accelerated by external and internal market shocks.

Election Platform and seeks commitments from the next Government in supporting:

1. Addressing the mental health crisis in the veterinary profession – through investment in mental health initiatives and Australian Government establishing an Assistant Minister for Wellness.
2. Making veterinary services economically sustainable and accessible – through subsidized pet insurance and payments for veterinary services delivered to unowned animals.
3. Workforce sustainability of the veterinary profession – through a HECS rural bonding scheme and investment in workforce needs.
4. Regulatory reform – through harmonization of veterinary regulation across all states and territories.
5. One health – through the introduction of a One Health framework for disease prevention and control in Australia.
6. Access to international markets – through benchmarking of animal welfare practices against trading partners.
7. Climate action – through sector-based emissions reduction strategies.

Read the full Platform here - National election platform 2022.pdf

What you can do:

• Download and read the AVA Federal Election Platform 
• Find out who your local candidates are:
  • Check your electorate here - https://check.aec.gov.au/
  • Find your local candidates:
    • ALP – https://www.alp.org.au/our-people/our-people/
    • Liberal - https://www.liberal.org.au/our-team
    • Nationals - https://nationals.org.au/our-team/
    • Greens - https://greens.org.au/candidates
  • Note, some areas will have additional candidates that you may also want to contact
• Write, email, or call your local candidates
  • The more personalized you can make your emails and conversations the better
  • Pick the issues in the AVA election platform that resonate most with you
  • Use stories from your personal experience
  • Keep an eye out when you are out – often candidates will be out meeting with the public. This is a good opportunity to have your say directly with them
• Social media – between now and the election, the AVA will be releasing a series of stories and tiles through social media. Use this to share within your own social media networks.