Join your local Division Committee

AVA State and Territory Division Committees are currently accepting nominations for members who wish to contribute to their local Division Committee. Please note that this applies to ACT, NSW, NT, QLD, SA, TAS, and VIC Divisions. The WA Division held its elections late last year instead. Interested individuals are encouraged to nominate themselves by sending an email to rose.fitzgerald@ava.com.au by Monday 12 February.

Do you want to help shape the advocacy efforts of the AVA in your Division? This could be through:

• Working on local veterinary, animal welfare, livestock, or companion animal legislation
• Meeting with State and Territory Ministers and Members of Parliament
• Exploring issues that face the profession and lobbying government for change
• A range of other activities (see below)…

Then nominate yourself or contact us for more information.

Role of Divisions

Following the release of the AVA Division and Branch Statement of Purpose and Handbook, the primary role of Divisions is advocacy, member engagement and support that is specific to your jurisdiction. CPD and education roles now sit with Branches, SIGs and AVA Nationally.  Members who are interested in nominating for the Committee are encouraged to read over these documents to understand the framework that drives AVA advocacy, policies, member engagement, and jurisdiction-specific support initiatives function.

Elections

Division committees are comprised of 5-9 volunteer members who must reside in the Division (or register as being part of that Division if living elsewhere). 

Members are elected to the Committee by the membership for an initial two-year term with elections occurring in February every other year. If more nominations are received than places available, an online ballot will occur. In this case, nominees will be asked to provide a 250-word citation that will be circulated to voting members to help them decide.

Division Election Timeline 

Why get involved in an AVA Committee (points provided by one of our Division Presidents)?

1. Discover the Diversity Within Our Profession:
   AVA committee members are a dynamic mix of friendly and passionate veterinarians who share a deep concern for the well-being and success of our profession. By engaging with committee members from various aspects of the veterinary field, you'll gain insights into diverse personality types and learn effective meeting management skills. It's an opportunity to broaden your horizons and enhance your professional relationships.
2. Gain a Broader Overview of the Veterinary World:
   Committee membership provides you with a panoramic view of the veterinary profession. You'll come to understand the comprehensive role of the AVA, not only in your individual career but also in shaping the veterinary landscape in your jurisdiction and across Australia. Witness how the AVA collaborates with Federal and State/Territory governments and regulatory bodies, advocates for veterinarians, animal health, welfare, and biosecurity, and supports members, animal owners, and industries.
3. Contribute to Legislative Development:
   Take an active role in shaping the future of veterinary legislation and codes of practice in your Division. Committee membership helps you to contribute to the creation of legislative advocacy that positively impact our profession, ensuring the highest standards and ethical practices.
4. Influence AVA's Policy development and advocacy direction:
   Your voice matters! Contribute your ideas, expertise, and passion to shape the policies, advocacy, initiatives and programs that will benefit our members and the broader community.
5. Collaborate with a Talented AVA Team:
   Work closely with the dedicated and talented AVA staff who share your commitment to the profession. This collaboration not only amplifies the impact of your efforts but also allows you to be part of a supportive and inspiring community.
6. Experience the Joy of Long-Term Contribution:
   Committee membership can be addictive—in a good way! Many members find immense personal pleasure and benefits in their work, often choosing to serve for many years. Discover the value of your contributions and the satisfaction of being part of positive change.