Vet training boost for region

NEW veterinary training facilities have opened at Southern Cross University’s Lismore campus as part of efforts to address workforce shortages in regional Australia.

The purpose built centre will support hands on clinical teaching for veterinary medicine courses launched this year.

The program has been developed in partnership with veterinary practices, wildlife hospitals and animal health organisations across the Northern Rivers.

Professor Jon Hill said training students in regional areas was key to building a sustainable workforce.

“We know veterinary workforce shortages are not simply about the number of graduates, they are about where those graduates choose to practise,” he said.

 

“By strengthening our veterinary training facilities here in the Northern Rivers, we are reinforcing a regionally anchored training pipeline and giving students greater exposure to the communities and industries that need them most.”

Regional veterinarians play an important role in detecting livestock disease and supporting animal welfare during floods, bushfires and drought.

Page MP Kevin Hogan said improving regional training pathways would help keep graduates in local communities.

“When students train in the regions, they are far more likely to stay and build their careers in regional communities,” he said.