New legislation to align veterinary practice in South Australia with contemporary expectations and standards will be introduced into Parliament.

Based on extensive stakeholder consultation and following a review of the existing Veterinary Practice Act 2003, the new Veterinary Services Bill considers significant changes to the profession that have occurred since the existing legislation was enacted.

This includes changes in practice models and location, employment type, species serviced, and specialties offered, as well as an increase in mainstream non-veterinary care services.

The Bill modernises the structure of the Veterinary Surgeons Board of South Australia by providing for a skills-based board representing the diversity of the veterinary profession. The board will become the Veterinary Services Regulatory Board of South Australia to better reflect its role and function as a regulatory authority.

The Bill also proposes to expand board functions to strengthen regulation of the profession. Included in this is increased transparency of administrative processes, including complaints handling, for the public and profession.

A new requirement for all veterinary premises to be registered is proposed by the Bill. This will further underpin consumer confidence in the veterinary profession by enabling compliance with minimum standards and ultimately ensuring premises are fit for their intended purpose.

Importantly, the Bill plays its role in assisting to address the shortage of veterinarians currently faced by South Australia. The Bill facilitates veterinarians to return to practice after time away by improving the transparency and certainty of transition requirements and providing flexibility in registration processes. The Bill also enables the entry of graduates to the profession upon completion of their degrees to be fast tracked.

The veterinary profession and animal care industry have evolved significantly since 2003, when the existing legislation came into effect. The Veterinary Services Bill proposes important updates that will support the health, safety, and welfare of animals.

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Attributable to Clare Scriven

Veterinarians play a key role in animal, human and community wellbeing by maintaining the health and welfare of our pets and the productivity and growth of our livestock industries.

The Veterinary Services Bill continues the Malinauskas Labor Government’s legislative reform agenda by introducing new legislation that will fulfil the objectives of supporting animal health, safety and welfare and meet community expectations.

By modernising and improving the legislative framework and introducing better communication, transparency, and flexibility, we will enhance the provision of veterinary services in South Australia.

Providing more flexibility for veterinarians wishing to return to work after a break and fast-tracking the entry of graduates are features of the new legislation that may encourage more veterinarians into the profession.