News

There is increasing recognition that the graduate transition experience for veterinarians in Australia needs to be managed more effectively. In 2022 the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC), Veterinary Schools of Australia and New Zealand (VSANZ) and AVA agreed to work together to address this issue, recognising that the responsibility should be shared between the regulators, the profession and educators.  

Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Mark Schipp confirms that Lumpy Skin Disease has never been detected in Australia, following Indonesia and Malaysia’s decision to restrict live exports of Australian cattle and buffalo.

Have you ever wondered why there are common sayings like "a gut-wrenching experience” or “butterflies in your stomach”? Your brain and your gut are more intertwined than you may think and no matter how ‘mentally happy’ you may be, your gut is incredibly sensitive to emotion.

The AVA's Policy Advisory Council (PAC) met on Saturday 27 May at the Adelaide Convention Centre ahead of the AVA Annual Conference. As a result of that meeting, 15 policies were progressed to the Board for ratification, 2 for member comment, and a further 20 Working Groups have been established to update many of the older policies in the compendium. 

After volunteering with Vets Beyond Borders on Thursday Island, Dr Catherine Henry is a firm advocate for the program. She was introduced to new communities, worked with great people and got a mental health boost to boot!

Second-generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides (SGARs) present a significant risk to wildlife and domestic animals via primary and secondary poisoning. These chemicals bioaccumulate in poisoned animals and present a secondary poisoning risk even after a poisoned animal has died. There is considerable evidence that non-target species, both native and domesticated, are widely exposed to SGARs in sublethal and lethal levels across the country.

Since I took on the role of AVA President in May, it seems like I’ve spent a lot of the time on a plane visiting other countries. Not that I’m complaining of course – it’s been well worth. I’ve have not only built some wonderful personal friendships but I have confirmed important existing relationships and in the process, learned a lot from the global veterinary community.

AVA Members feedback is requested to inform the AVA submission to Inquiry into Pounds in NSW.

The Australian Pig Veterinarians Conference was held this week on the Sunshine Coast. It brought together pig veterinarians and industry representatives from across Australia to discuss topics related to pig farming and veterinary practices.

This detailed FAQ covers the use of antibiotics in companion animals and farm animals and is intended to be used in discussions with clients and interest groups regarding responsible use of antibiotics in animals – particularly in explaining why and how they are used in Australia.

Equine Veterinarians Australia (EVA) provided the following update to members on management of the virus.