Veterinarians have ranked fifth in the most trusted occupations in Australia, according to the 2025 Governance Institute of Australia Report.
Released this week, the report reveals that veterinarians have gained 5 points this year, improving their trust score to 70. This places them in the top 5 with nurses, ambulance services, fire services, and primary school teachers.
Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) President, Dr Gemma Chuck has welcomed the findings, saying the recognition highlights the important role veterinarians play in the health and wellbeing of communities across Australia.
"Veterinarians are essential, not only for the health of domestic animals but for the vital role they play in protecting public health, food security and our Australian wildlife," Dr Chuck said.
"Their work underpins $90 billion in agricultural production and exports, supports the wellbeing of 31.6 million pets, and plays a central role in maintaining public trust in animal industries.
"We are proud to be included as one of the top 5 most trusted professions in Australia. This ranking shows that Australians truly value the role veterinarians play and the ethical way in which we work.
"Along with human healthcare workers and early-life educators, veterinarians are fundamental to community wellbeing," Dr Chuck said. "To see that the veterinary profession has improved in the rankings in public trust is testament to the positive contribution we provide to the communities in which we live and work – thank you for placing your trust in us."
The Ethics Index was developed using a nationally representative survey of 1000 people. Conducted between 14-28 July 2025, the survey participants were weighted according to age, gender and location to ensure that it represents the demographic makeup of the Australian adult population.
Read the full report, here.
