The AVA Animal Welfare Trust (AWT) was established by the veterinary profession to fund research and education programs which make a positive and significant difference to animal welfare.
It is difficult to imagine a world without animals. Wherever we look, we see animals making valuable contributions to the quality of our lives. Our aim is to improve the quality of their lives in return.
The AVA Animal Welfare Trust was established by the veterinary profession to fund research and education programs which make a positive and significant difference to animal welfare.
The Trust is administered by voluntary Trustees, each a veterinarian with expertise in and an active commitment to, the welfare of all animals. Trustees identify areas of real need and support research with a real chance of making a positive difference to animals. Each year a worthy project is selected from applicants to receive funding of up to $10,000.
July 2026
Expressions of Interest Open – Animal Welfare Trust Trustees
The AVA Animal Welfare Trust (AWT) is seeking expressions of interest from members who are passionate about advancing animal welfare to join its Board of Trustees in a voluntary capacity.
The Trust was established by the veterinary profession to support animal welfare through research, education, promotion and action, funding projects each year that make a positive and lasting difference to the lives of animals.
Trustees play an important role in supporting the growth and strategic direction of the Trust, promoting its annual grants program, and ratifying grant recommendations made by the AWT Grants Committee. The Trust provides grants to individuals and institutions undertaking research aimed at improving animal welfare outcomes.
If you are interested in contributing your skills and expertise to support evidence-based animal welfare initiatives, or would like to learn more about becoming a Trustee, please contact AWT@ava.com.au by July 31st.
Preferred candidates are those who are engaged in companion or large animal practice and could also be a lay person who has a particular interest or expertise in animal welfare.
Animal welfare research
Supporting projects that answer real questions about what animals need and how to improve their lives.
Education programs
Informing community members and animal carers about evidence-based welfare standards and practices.
Public awareness
Distributing current welfare information and stimulating community interest in animal welfare.
Why it matters
We have an obligation to ensure animals are treated humanely and cared for appropriately. The welfare and care of animals must be underpinned by contemporary science and ethical principles.
How you can help
Donate or bequest
Make a one-off donation, give in memory of a special animal, or leave a bequest.
Become a sponsor
Make a regular contribution as an Animal Welfare Trust sponsor and support the profession year-round.
Spread the word
Help us reach more people by displaying AWT leaflets in your waiting room and including them in sympathy cards for clients.
How to apply for the grant
The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) Animal Welfare Trust has as its purpose to promote and fund animal welfare research.
The fund is supported by ongoing AVA membership contributions. As funds are limited, Animal Welfare Trust research grants are suitable for small, one-year projects associated with animal welfare.
They can be used to assist postgraduate students working towards veterinary, honours, and master’s degrees, PhD degrees, or fellowship of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists. The Trustees would extend this offer to other students undertaking studies that are focused on animal welfare.
The Trustees would welcome proposals for successful applicants to deliver papers at the AVA annual conference (in May each year) and/or to have suitable papers published in the Australian Veterinary Journal.
The application form below details requirements for the grants. Currently the AWT are allocating a total of up to $10,000, to spend on a project (or projects) of up to one year’s duration.
Please note the closing date for applications for 2026 is 29 March 2026.
Further information can be obtained from Administration Support of the Animal Welfare Trust: awt@ava.com.au
Dr Tanya Stephens
Chair
AVA Animal Welfare Trust