National News

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

“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.

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.

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

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.

Racing Queensland (RQ) is seeking stakeholder feedback on a suite of proposed amendments to the Australian Rules of Racing that have been approved by the Racing Australia Board for consultation. Several of the proposed changes raise important issues for equine veterinarians, particularly in relation to animal welfare, veterinary oversight, and the interface between clinical decision-making and racing regulation.

The AVA is seeking member input to inform the development of its submission to this consultation.

From cattle to companion animals, 2026 is shaping up to be a blockbuster year for veterinary conferences across Australia. With an impressive line-up of events already on the calendar, there’s no shortage of opportunities to expand your knowledge, connect with peers, and hear directly from experts who have shaped the profession and continue to influence its future

The South Australian Veterinary Services Regulations 2025 have now been formally made by the Governor and published in the South Australian Government Gazette. These Regulations, together with the Veterinary Services Act 2023, will come into effect on 1 July 2026.

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) is inviting feedback on the 8th edition of the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes.