Who we are

The trusted voice of Australia’s veterinary profession since 1921

The AVA is the peak professional body representing veterinary professionals and students across Australia. For more than 100 years we have been the united voice of the veterinary profession.

Veterinarians and veterinary teams play a vital role in Australian society. They safeguard animal health and welfare, contribute to public health and biosecurity and support the communities they live and work in. They are among Australia’s most trusted professionals, known for their compassion and strong ethics, while working in roles that are both technically demanding and emotionally complex.

The AVA exists to support this work and to strengthen the profession behind it.

We represent the veterinary profession at every level of government, in regulatory consultations and in the media. When legislation changes, budgets are set or public debate affects the profession, the AVA is at the table representing our members and the profession. From biosecurity funding and prescribing rights to workforce sustainability and animal welfare standards, we fight for outcomes that matter to veterinary professionals and the animals in their care.

 We deliver high-quality continuing professional development, evidence-based clinical resources and prescribing guidelines across every sector of the profession. Whether you work in practice, government, industry or academia, we provide the knowledge and tools to help you do your work with confidence.

The AVA is a community of communities. Through our Special Interest Groups, Divisions and Branches, we connect you with peers who share your discipline, your challenges and your purpose. These networks are where knowledge is exchanged, advice is shared and professional friendships are built. That collegiality sustains careers, builds resilience and strengthens the profession as a whole.

The AVA equips you with the practical resources, services and support that veterinary professionals need throughout their careers. From workplace relations advice and guidance to mental health support and clinical resources, we put the right tools in your hands at the right time. Whether you are navigating a difficult workplace situation, looking for practical guidance or simply need to know where to turn, we are here with the services and support to help you move forward with confidence.

Everything we do is shaped by you, our members. Your expertise drives our advocacy, your needs inform our programs and your voices defines our direction.

Real voices from veterinary professionals across Australia.

What Our Members Say

Dr Moss Siddle
Dr Moss SiddleVeterinarian & Business Owner
No matter what your interest is, you can find your tribe within the AVA. For me, it has mainly been the Veterinary Business Group. I love the camaraderie and the opportunity to meet so many talented, innovative, and lateral thinking vets.
Dr Nicole Hoskin
Dr Nicole HoskinVeterinary Surgeon & Educator
Being part of AVDS has been incredible. I’ve met so many people who share the same passion – it’s made me feel far less isolated in the veterinary profession. I like to think of us as the “dental nerds” coming together.
Dr Jessie Field
Dr Jessie FieldRecent Graduate
I received support from experienced veterinarians who shared advice and placement opportunities. Meeting students from other universities was also great for exchanging ideas about veterinary school. I discovered a supportive community within AVA and feel privileged to be a part of it.
Dr Margaret Reilly
Dr Margaret ReillyAVA Director
I received support from experienced veterinarians who shared advice and placement opportunities. Meeting students from other universities was also great for exchanging ideas about veterinary school. I discovered a supportive community within AVA and feel privileged to be a part of it.
Dr Hadley Willsallen
Dr Hadley WillsallenSpecialist Equine Surgeon
I received support from experienced veterinarians who shared advice and placement opportunities. Meeting students from other universities was also great for exchanging ideas about veterinary school. I discovered a supportive community within AVA and feel privileged to be a part of it.

Interested in becoming a member?

Join our network of veterinarians, allied professionals and veterinary students