This article was published in the August 2025 edition of Vetboard Victoria's newsletter.
Content was current at the time of publication but there may have been changes since then, as rules, standards and professional and community expectations change over time. Readers are also referred to our Policy on general registration for the purposes of specialist endorsement.
Potential specialist registration pathway for persons with unrecognised primary qualifications
There is an increased need for persons with high-level veterinary skills in Victoria due to a number of factors: a surge in pet ownership resulting from various factors including the COVID-19 pandemic and changes to rental rules allowing renters to keep pets; higher pet insurance uptake; growing awareness of animal health; and the resulting increased demand for advanced surgical and diagnostic procedures for animals.
The number of dedicated emergency and specialist practices in Victoria has also increased. Pet owners with the financial means to do so are willing to spend more on veterinary procedures to prolong their pets' lives, and general veterinary practitioners frequently consult specialists or refer clients to specialists.
To address a demand for persons with specialist qualifications in Victoria which is not sufficiently met by the numbers of graduates from Australian-based specialist training programs, in April 2025 the Board adopted a policy allowing for the general registration of persons with postgraduate veterinary qualifications whose primary veterinary qualifications would not otherwise be recognised in Victoria (link to policy below). Grant of general registration in these cases is for specialist endorsement. If registration is granted, the veterinary practitioner must apply to have their postgraduate qualifications and experience assessed by the AVBC. If the applicant is recommended for specialist registration, the Board may endorse them to practise in their specialty.
Recently, 3 persons have been granted general registration under the policy, with the AVBC currently assessing their postgraduate qualifications and experience.
We look forward to receiving further applications under the policy. Please contact us first if you or anyone you know is considering applying through this pathway.
Related information and guidelines