This week I have had the opportunity to attend the Pilbara Summit, joining leaders, industry representatives, government stakeholders and regional businesses to discuss the future of one of Australia’s most important regions.
As both WA AVA President and the owner of a veterinary business operating in regional Western Australia, the discussions have reinforced many of the challenges and opportunities that our profession faces every day. While the veterinary industry may not always be front of mind in broader economic conversations, our role in supporting animal welfare, food security, biosecurity, public health and regional communities is critical.
One of the key questions I have been raising throughout the Summit is whether veterinary services are being adequately recognised as an essential service. Rural and regional communities rely on access to veterinary care, yet workforce shortages, recruitment challenges and service delivery costs continue to place significant pressure on practices across Western Australia.
Access to affordable housing has also been a recurring theme. Attracting veterinarians and veterinary nurses to regional areas is increasingly difficult when housing availability and affordability are barriers to relocation. Quality housing, community infrastructure and lifestyle opportunities are not simply economic issues—they are workforce issues that directly impact the sustainability of veterinary services.
Importantly, I have also been advocating for greater support and investment in innovative service models. If we are serious about improving access to veterinary care, we need to think beyond traditional delivery models. This includes exploring new ways to support services in remote communities, Aboriginal communities and low socioeconomic populations, where access to care can be limited by geography, cost and workforce availability.
The conversations at the Pilbara Summit have been encouraging. There is growing recognition that regional services require regional solutions. I remain committed to ensuring the veterinary profession has a strong voice in these discussions and that the needs of our communities, our animals and our industry continue to be heard.
Kind Regards
AVA WA Division President
Dr Katy Davis
BVSc BSc Aquaculture