December 5, 2023
Message from The Minister: Passage of the Veterinary Services Bill
Dear partners in primary industries and regions,
I am pleased to inform you that the Veterinary Services Bill 2023 has now passed both houses of Parliament and will now be referred to as the Veterinary Services Act 2023.
This is a significant milestone in the State Government’s ambitious legislative reform agenda to deliver modern and flexible legislation that strengthens our primary industries, maintains our natural environment and safeguards plant and animal health.
The new Act will ensure that the legislation aligns with both the contemporary nature of the veterinary profession and the standards expected by users and providers of veterinary services. 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 Act 2023 recognises significant changes that have occurred to the profession during the past 20 years, including changes in practice models and location, employment type, species serviced, and specialities offered, and an increase in mainstream non-veterinary care services.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) will work closely with the Veterinary Surgeons Board of South Australia to prepare for the commencement of the new Act, with the aim of ensuring a smooth transition. In the meantime, and until commencement of the Veterinary Services Act 2023, the Veterinary Practice Act 2003 remains in effect.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this important process. The State Government, through PIRSA, will continue to prioritise collaboration between government, industry stakeholders, and the community as part of the reform process for our primary industries and regions. I encourage you to take all future opportunities to engage and collaborate with us in delivering comprehensive and forward-thinking legislation. By doing so, we will position our primary industries and regional communities to be resilient and prosperous for generations to come.
Hon Clare Scriven MLC
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development
Minister for Forest Industries