The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) welcomes the release of the South Australian Parliamentary Joint Committee Report on the Mental Health and Wellbeing of Veterinarians, and extends its sincere thanks to the Committee, and every individual and organisation who provided submissions or gave evidence. Your contributions were vital in ensuring the realities of veterinary practice were clearly understood and accurately represented.
This report represents a significant milestone for the profession. It is one of the most comprehensive acknowledgements to date of both the immense value veterinarians provide to the community and the significant pressures and challenges the sector faces.
The AVA is pleased to see strong alignment between the Committee’s recommendations and our submission. Key recommendations reflect AVA advocacy on:
- Recognising the value of the profession through improved economic and workforce data.
- Funding public-good veterinary work, including stray and wildlife services.
- Regulating veterinary nurses and technologists to strengthen the veterinary team.
- Supporting veterinary students, including extending the Commonwealth Prac Payment Scheme.
- Improving rural workforce sustainability through incentives and targeted programs.
- Investing in mental health and suicide prevention.
- Improving client behaviour and public expectations via community education campaigns.
This report demonstrates that Parliament has heard and understood the significant workforce pressures, mental health risks, and financial vulnerabilities impacting veterinarians, while also acknowledging the essential role vets play in public health, animal welfare, biosecurity, agriculture, and community wellbeing.
The AVA will now undertake a detailed review of the full report and its 32 recommendations. We are committed to working collaboratively with the South Australian Government, industry partners, educators, and other key stakeholders to support the development and implementation of practical, effective solutions.
We thank all members who contributed their expertise and experiences throughout this process. Your voices have helped shape a report that meaningfully reflects the reality of veterinary practice and sets the foundations for meaningful change.