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During National Biosecurity Week (25-31 August), the AVA is calling on policy makers and the public to recognise and support the essential role of the veterinary profession.
National Biosecurity Week aims to raise awareness about the vital role of biosecurity in protecting Australia’s natural environment, agriculture, food systems, economy, and way of life. The national campaign also aims to emphasise that ‘biosecurity is not just about borders and hazmat suits, it’s something we can all contribute to.’
The theme this year is “Protecting what matters. Together.” This invites all Australians at home, at work, or in their communities, to take meaningful action in safeguarding Australia’s shared future.
Veterinarians are a crucial part of Australia’s biosecurity system, protecting the health of our livestock, wildlife, pets and people. Their work underpins $90 billion in agricultural production and exports, supports the wellbeing of more than 28 million pets, and plays a central role in maintaining public trust in animal industries. Yet, this vital contribution is often overlooked.
In a media release this week, AVA President Dr Gemma Chuck said “Vets are critical to ensuring the health and wellbeing of animals and play a pivotal role in the detection and monitoring of infectious diseases. With over 75% of new or emerging human diseases originating in animals, vets are more important than ever in protecting human health and the public. We are the frontline of animal disease surveillance and emergency response.”
Dr Chuck, AVA Chief Executive Melissa King, and National Manager for Advocacy Graham Pratt, are in Canberra this week, asking policy makers to back veterinarians through greater investment in workforce sustainability, mental health initiatives and measures to futureproof the profession.
“While we’re committed to delivering these essential services to ensure biosecurity, food security and public health in Australia, we urgently need dedicated and assured investment, support for our workforce, and a renewed focus on sustainability,” Dr Chuck said.
During National Biosecurity Week, the AVA calls on policy makers and the public to:
- Recognise and resource veterinarians as a frontline defence for biosecurity and food security
- Invest in mental health support and workforce sustainability initiatives to attract, support and retain veterinary professionals, particularly in regional areas
- Reinforce the importance of veterinarians in public-good services, emergency planning, disease surveillance, and reducing the likelihood and impact of zoonotic disease
- Call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline if they see anything unusual: 1800 675 888
As Dr Chuck said, “It’s a misconception that veterinarians “just work with animals”. In addition to being doctors of animal health, we are the guardians of biosecurity, the insurers of food safety, the investigators of disease outbreaks, the advisors for zoonoses and public health and the protectors of precious antimicrobials. But above all we are trusted professionals in the communities we live in and proudly serve.”
National Biosecurity Week is a timely reminder that supporting our veterinary workforce is not only an investment in animal health, but a critical safeguard for our economy, our communities, and our future.