South Australia passes new veterinary legislation to modernize the profession
The new bill is expected to support and encourage the growth and needs of the sector.
South Australia’s House of Assembly and Legislative Council passed a new bill to strengthen the regulation of the state’s veterinary profession, affecting 912 registered vets.
The regulations, amending the Veterinary Practice Act adopted in 2003, will implement more requirements for veterinary practices and establish a registration system for veterinary clinics.
The official South Australia Government press release states, “A new requirement for all veterinary premises to be registered is an important inclusion in the legislation, underpinning consumer confidence in the veterinary profession.”
The bill aims to ensure better communication, transparency and flexibility in the veterinary industry.
According to the Australian Veterinarian Association (AVA), the new legislation is expected to come into effect in late 2024 after it has been signed by the Governor-General. “We expect that there will be consultation on the regulations as they are prepared, and AVA looks forward to engaging in this,” says a spokesperson.