What’s happening across the veterinary profession nationally — workforce, policy, industry developments and AVA announcements.
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Authorised Pet Rehoming Organisation (APRO) Scheme consultation
The Victorian Government is seeking feedback on proposed regulations supporting the new Authorised Pet Rehoming Organisation (APRO) scheme. The AVA is inviting members to share their views to help inform its consideration of the consultation. Members can provide feedback directly to AVA or respond through the government consultation, which closes on Monday 16 March 2026.

Help Shape Reform of Veterinary Medicines and Poisons Regulation
The AVA has launched a major national advocacy initiative — Managing Medicines and Poisons: A Path to Reform for Veterinary Practice in Australia — to tackle long-standing inconsistencies and impracticalities in how veterinary medicines and poisons are regulated across states and territories. Your insights will directly influence the AVA’s advocacy to legislators, regulators, and other stakeholders — and help shape a system that supports veterinary teams, protects animals, and serves our communities.
AVA Director Nomination
The Australian Veterinary Association is seeking nominations for two Director positions – one Veterinary Director and one Independent Director. Nominations close 5pm Sunday 8 March 2026.
Volunteer opportunities across the Pacific: Make your skills count where they’re needed most
Vets Beyond Borders (VBB) currently has a range of volunteer opportunities available across the Pacific for veterinary professionals ready to make a meaningful contribution to animal welfare in underserved communities.

Advancing Cattle Health: 2026 ACV Conference
Australia’s cattle veterinarians are gearing up for the 2026 Australian Cattle Veterinarians (ACV) Conference. Scheduled for 23- 25 March 2026 at the Royal International Convention Centre in Brisbane, also known as the Ekka Showgrounds, this year’s conference promises science, collaboration, and community.

Bova unveils refreshed brand, guided by purpose, vision and values
We’re excited to announce that Bova’s brand is evolving. Renowned and instantly recognisable for our iconic Bova purple, this much-loved colour remains at the heart of our identity. It is now

Damage to veterinary equipment
Guild Insurance regularly manages claims where veterinary equipment has been severely damaged and needs to be repaired or replaced. While insurance is there to ease the burden when these events
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.