Lort Smith Animal Hospital, of Victoria’s largest employers of veterinary professionals, is extremely concerned about the State Government’s proposed implementation of the ‘Silver Report’ and its recommendation to abolish the Victorian Veterinary Registration Board (Vetboard Victoria).

We believe it is a potentially dangerous cost cutting exercise.

This will be to the serious detriment of the veterinary profession as well as affecting the millions of Victorian pet owners who are concerned for their pets’ care, and the people who care for them.

Vetboard Victoria plays a crucial role in regulating the veterinary profession, ensuring that professional standard are maintained throughout the industry. Its board is made up of nine members, six of whom are respected veterinary practitioners.

Veterinarians are highly skilled professionals working within a challenging and emotionally charged industry.

Complaints made to the Board are often extremely complex in nature and if not handled efficiently and correctly, can have devastating impacts on the professionals being investigated.

The Veterinary industry has one of the highest levels of suicide.

Combining the purpose and responsibilities of Vetboard Victoria with the Business Licensing Authority and Work with Children Checks will inevitably have a serious and detrimental impact on the mental health of veterinary practitioners.

We call on the State government to put lives before cost-savings and reverse this decision immediately.