Updates from your state or territory branch — divisional news and what your representatives are working on.
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AVA South Australia State Election Priorities
The AVA has released its Election Priorities for the 2026 SA State Election.
Consultation for Inquiry into the Victorian 2026 Summer Bushfires
The Victorian Government is conducting an Inquiry into the 2026 bushfires across Victoria. The AVA is preparing a submission to the Inquiry and is seeking feedback from members to inform our response.
Changes to Prescribed Licensee Status for Veterinarians in Queensland
Queensland veterinarians should be aware of important changes that came into effect on 1 October 2025 regarding the use of diagnostic X-ray equipment under Queensland radiation safety legislation.
These changes affect whether a radiation use licence is required and apply specifically to veterinarians who use plain diagnostic imaging X-ray apparatus for small animals.
Nominate Now – Help Shape the Future of Our Profession in QLD
If you are passionate about the future of veterinary practice in Queensland and want to connect with like-minded colleagues while shaping meaningful change, we encourage you to nominate.
Help Shape the Future of Our Profession — Nominate for the SA Division Committee
With the release of the South Australian Parliamentary Report on the Mental Health and Wellbeing of Veterinarians (Feb 2026), our profession has been given a rare and powerful opportunity: a comprehensive report with many recommendations that directly aligns with the AVA’s long-standing advocacy priorities.
Step Forward for Your Profession: Nominate for the AVA WA Division Executive Committee
Nominations are now open for the AVA WA Division Executive Committee, and this is your chance to help shape the future of veterinary practice in WA.
AVA ACT 2026-27 Pre-Budget Submission
The AVA has provided an ACT 2026-27 Pre-Budget submission with 8 recommendations on the 4 key priorities for the veterinary profession.
SA Breeder Reforms
The AVA provided a submission to the South Australian Government on proposed reforms to dog and cat breeding regulations, emphasising evidence-based welfare standards, responsible breeding practices, and alignment with relevant AVA policies.
AVA strengthens welfare voice in Racing Queensland rules review
The AVA has lodged a detailed submission to Racing Queensland on proposed amendments to the Rules of Racing, reinforcing that animal welfare and racing integrity must go hand in hand.
Developed in consultation with Equine Veterinarians Australia (EVA) and Australian Veterinarians for Animal Welfare & Ethics (AVAWE), the submission advocates for clearer, nationally aligned regulation that prioritises the health, safety and long-term wellbeing of racehorses.
Why the AVA’s Federal Budget Submission Matters to You
The Australian Veterinary Association has lodged its 2026–27 Pre-Budget Submission to the Australian Government, calling for targeted investment to secure a sustainable veterinary profession and protect Australia’s animal health, biosecurity and food security.
Cyclophosphamide use in the Queensland veterinary industry
Cyclophosphamide is a type of antineoplastic medication, which is commonly used in chemotherapy and immunosuppressive therapy. It requires metabolic activation to function as an alkylating agent, meaning it is not cytotoxic in its initial state.
Submission to NSW Inquiry into licenses to harm native animals
The AVA has provided a submission to the NSW Inquiry into licenses to harm native animals. The submission focuses on the welfare of native animals and the role of veterinarians.
Submission to the Review of the NSW Thoroughbred Racing Act
EVA has provided a submission to the Review of the NSW Thoroughbred Racing Act.
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.
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.
Victorian Government Silver Review
The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) was not consulted prior to last week’s public announcement of the Victorian Government’s intention to merge the Veterinary Practitioners Registration Board of Victoria (VPRBV) into a new Business and Professions Regulator as part of the recommendations in the Silver Review. The AVA has serious concerns in relation to this intention and is liaising with the VPRBV.
Laws are changing in Victoria: Time to become AVA CST AWARE
From 1 December 2025, new Occupational Health and Safety (Psychological Health) Regulations will come into effect in Victoria and will directly impact veterinary practices across the state.
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.
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.
AVA Submission – NSW Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy
The AVA’s submission to the NSW Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy calls for targeted reforms to address psychosocial risks in the veterinary profession, including stronger data collection, rural incentives, tailored mental health supports, and workforce retention measures.
AVA Submission – ACT Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs
The AVA welcomes the ACT Draft Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs and proposes practical, evidence-based refinements – centred on clear standards, positive-reinforcement training, sensible tethering and temperature safeguards, and better identification and traceability.