Advocacy News

Public Affairs and Advocacy Update December 2025

Policy Advisory Council The Policy Advisory Council has progressed a substantial body of work, completing a major Decision Point process in November with 14 policy drafts considered. Seven final drafts […]

Submission – NT Dangerous Animal Guideline – Crocodiles as Pets

The AVA opposes the keeping of crocodiles as pets in the Northern Territory, citing serious animal welfare and public safety risks, and the lack of a practical veterinary-care framework. The submission highlights the specialised needs of crocodilians, enforcement and traceability concerns, and recommends strict regulatory safeguards if a permit scheme proceeds.

Public Affairs and Advocacy Update November 2025

Policy Advisory Council The Council progressed significant policy work, with seven policies advancing to Board ratification and seven moving to member consultation in January. Ongoing development continues on the Rodeo and Companion Animal Health Certification policies. A […]

Submission – Inquiry into the Greyhound Racing Industry in WA

The AVA’s submission to the Inquiry into the Greyhound Racing Industry in WA draws on AVA Policies and Member feedback to provide 20 recommendations on greyhound welfare, regulation, and evidence-based improvements.

AVA lodges submission to Jobs and Skills Australia on Regional Workforce Roadmap

The AVA has called on Jobs and Skills Australia to formally recognise veterinarians as essential workers in its new Regional Jobs and Skills Roadmap—highlighting the critical role vets play in agriculture, biosecurity and community wellbeing. Read how our submission puts veterinary services at the centre of regional sustainability.

AVA lodges submission on the implementation of virtual fencing in NSW

The AVA supports the controlled use of virtual fencing in NSW, backed by strong welfare safeguards, monitoring requirements, and clear restrictions on boundary use. With appropriate regulation, VF can be a valuable tool supporting modern livestock management and improved welfare outcomes.

AVA Feedback to the QLD review of Biosecurity prohibited and restricted matter lists.

The AVA has submitted feedback to the Queensland review of the Biosecurity prohibited and restricted matter lists, addressing concerns with the current definition of cats.

Public Affairs and Advocacy Update October 2025

Policy Advisory Council PAC advanced significant policy work, finalising 14 policies for decision in November and progressing the HPAI policy update for Board ratification. Engagement at the APV Conference helped […]

Submission – WA Suicide Prevention Framework

The AVA’s submission to the WA Mental Health Commission calls for stronger recognition of occupational factors in suicide prevention, noting the elevated risk among veterinarians. It recommends closer collaboration with professional associations, alignment with WorkSafe WA psychosocial hazard regulations, and support for AVA wellbeing programs such as THRIVE and Cultivating Safe Teams to strengthen prevention efforts in high-risk professions.

AVA Submission on SA Veterinary Premises Standards

The AVA has recently lodged a submission to the Veterinary Surgeons Board of South Australia (VSBSA) in response to the consultation on the draft Veterinary Premises Standards.
Our submission commends the VSBSA for its collaborative and transparent approach and for recognising the Australian Small Animal Veterinarians (ASAV) Hospital Accreditation Standards within the proposed framework.