International Pride Month 2025: AVA strengthens policies to support LGBTQIA+ veterinarians

As Pride Month is celebrated worldwide, the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) proudly reaffirms its commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in the veterinary profession. Every June, Pride Month commemorates the start of the global LGBTQIA+ liberation movement, honouring the pivotal Stonewall riots of 1969 and the pride marches that followed, which ignited a worldwide push for LGBTQIA+ rights and recognition. 

The AVA’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy was developed in 2017, thanks to a member working group. This policy has become one of the cornerstones of the AVA’s wellness strategy. 

In another step forward, the AVA recently became a signatory to the Global (Gender) Identity Bill of Rights, joining a coalition of veterinary organisations worldwide in committing to eliminate discriminatory practices and uphold the rights of transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals in the profession. The Bill of Rights sets a minimum foundation for inclusivity, advocating for the right to self-identify, the respectful use of names and pronouns, and equal opportunities in education and employment. 

Reflecting on these advancements, the AVA’s Policy Advisory Council convened in May 2025 to review the 2017 EDI policy. Recognising the evolving landscape of diversity and inclusion, the Council resolved to update the policy to ensure it remains relevant and impactful. A new working group of AVA members has been established to lead this important work, with updates expected in the third and fourth quarters of 2025. 

This renewed focus will be further supported by the development of a comprehensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategy, reinforcing the AVA’s commitment to creating a profession where every individual feels valued and supported.