Meet Your AVA Division Presidents – Supporting Advocacy and Local Connection 

AVA Divisions are the foundation of the Association’s work at a state and territory level, ensuring that veterinary professionals are both represented and supported where it matters most. Led by committed volunteer committees, Divisions bring the profession’s voice to local decision-makers while strengthening connections between members, branches, and the wider AVA. 

We’re pleased to introduce your Division Presidents: 

• ACT: Dr Julia Gabrielson
• NSW: Dr Amy Regis
• NT: Dr Amy Harding
• QLD: Dr Regan Lynch
• SA: DR Catherine Harper
• TAS: Dr Rhianna Booth
• WA: Dr Katy Davis
• VIC: Dr Suffien Suharju 

Working alongside their Division Committees, these leaders play a critical role in ensuring that the needs, challenges, and priorities of veterinarians in their jurisdictions are understood and acted upon. 

At the heart of each Division’s role is state and territory-based advocacy. Divisions work closely with the AVA Advocacy Team to identify emerging local issues—whether regulatory changes, workforce pressures, animal welfare concerns, or biosecurity risks—and respond with targeted advocacy. They build and maintain relationships with government, regulators, industry, and other stakeholders, ensuring that the veterinary perspective is clearly represented in decision-making processes. Divisions also feed these local priorities into national advocacy planning, helping ensure that the AVA’s broader agenda reflects the realities on the ground.  

The Divisions also have a role in supporting branches and strengthening local networks. Branches are where members gather for local connection, education, and peer support—and Divisions provide collegial support to our Branch teams.  This two-way connection ensures that grassroots concerns are elevated, and that members remain informed and engaged.  

All of this work is made possible by volunteers. Division Committees bring together veterinarians from diverse backgrounds to ensure a broad perspective in everything they do. Their work is practical, impactful, and closely tied to the day-to-day realities of veterinary practice in each region. 

For members, Divisions offer a clear pathway to get involved and make a difference. Volunteering on a Division Committee provides the opportunity to contribute to meaningful advocacy, support colleagues in your local area, and help shape the future of the profession. 

If you’ve been considering getting more involved with the AVA, your Division is the ideal place to start. Through their work in advocacy and branch support, Divisions ensure that the voice of the profession is strong, local connections are maintained, and members are supported every step of the way.