National News

Student Placement Scholarships: Discover something new

For veterinary medicine students across Australia, placement scholarships open the door to exploration and opportunity. These programs provide a fantastic chance to see new parts of the country and uncover incredible, previously undiscovered career paths in veterinary practice.

Veterinarians recognised with Australia Day honours

The AVA congratulates 6 veterinarians who have been recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours for their exceptional contributions to veterinary science, education, and the broader community.

SIG in the Spotlight: Australian Small Animal Veterinarians (ASAV) Group

Joining the ASAV means becoming part of a strong, supportive community of small animal veterinarians dedicated to advancing the profession. For nearly 60 years, the ASAV has championed the role of small animal veterinarians by providing high quality education, practical resources, professional collegiality, and a powerful voice in advocacy and policy. Membership offers ongoing support at every stage of your career, helping you stay connected, informed, and confident in a constantly evolving profession.

One Health Awareness month: AVA Conference to recognise One Health

January marks One Health Awareness Month – a global initiative that highlights the vital interconnection between human, animal and environmental health. The approach recognises that the wellbeing of people cannot be separated from the health of animals and the ecosystems we share.

AVA’s role in natural disaster response and recovery

Australia’s summer of fires and floods has again highlighted the vital, often unseen role veterinarians play in disaster response and recovery.

Veterinary Nursing Review consultation now open

Skills Insight has opened consultation on proposed updates to Australia’s veterinary nursing training products, including the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing and the Diploma of Veterinary Nursing. These changes will shape how veterinary nurses are trained, supported and recognised into the future — and AVA members are encouraged to have their say.

Get involved – 2026 Division Elections: Nominations open

“Divisions give us a voice in decisions that directly affect how we practise in our state or territory.”

Nominations are now open for members to be involved on our Division Committees.

Divisions represent AVA members within each Australian state or territory, advocating on issues that affect the veterinary profession at that level. Whether it’s workforce shortages, mental health, regulation, licensing, or education pathways. Divisions are the conduit between local members, government stakeholders, and Veterinary Registration Boards.

2026 AVA Awards: Nominations closing soon

Nominations for the 2026 AVA Awards close Monday, 2 February 2026, so now is the time to recognise the colleagues, mentors and peers who make veterinary medicine such a vibrant and forward-looking profession.

Get Involved: SA Breeder Regulations, Standards and Licensing

The South Australian Government is consulting on key elements required to implement the new breeder licensing scheme under the Dog and Cat Management reforms.

APVMA review of anticoagulant rodenticides

The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) is consulting on significant proposed regulatory changes affecting anticoagulant rodenticides, including first- and second-generation products commonly used in agricultural and pest management contexts.