The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) congratulates Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and the Albanese government on their second election victory.
AVA President Dr Sally Colgan said the veterinary profession is essential to advancing key national priorities - biosecurity, food security, animal health, and rural workforce resilience - and we stand ready to work in partnership with government.
"The veterinary profession plays a vital role in protecting Australia's agricultural productivity, biosecurity systems, public health and the wellbeing of millions of animals and people," Dr Colgan said.
"Workforce shortages and underinvestment in veterinary infrastructure, especially in regional and rural areas, continues to undermine the profession's sustainability and the growth of the regions.
"We look forward to working with the returned government, coalition, minor parties and independents to ensure veterinarians and the veterinary profession is recognised and supported as essential contributors to Australia's future."
Veterinarians underpin $90 billion in agricultural production, safeguard Australia's export markets and support the human-animal bond across communities. They play a significant part in strengthening the social and economic fabric of Australian society from metro to rural, regional and remote areas.
Dr Colgan thanked all MPs and senators who have engaged with the AVA on our key priorities.
"We are ready to work with government on practical reforms, including a national veterinary workforce plan, improved support for rural and regional veterinary careers, and stronger investment in veterinary-led biosecurity capacity," Dr Colgan said.
"We will continue to build on these relationships and forge new ones because the essential role of vets needs champions across parliament."
