The state government is moving to modernise a veterinary regulatory framework more than 20 years old.
The Minns Labor Government will advance major reforms to modernise the state’s veterinary regulatory framework, including the professional recognition of veterinary nurses and technicians for the first time, after introducing the Veterinary Services Bill 2026 to the Parliament of NSW.
The legislative reforms are designed to rebuild the essential veterinary services pet owners and farmers need, and address longstanding workforce issues impacting vets and their support workers.
For the first time, the Bill acknowledges the important role of mobile vet clinics in regional NSW and sets up a regulatory process for the provision of telehealth services.
In practical terms, the Bill will register veterinary nurses and approved persons who provide veterinary services, clarifying roles, responsibilities and professional standards. It will also license all veterinary service businesses, including veterinary practices and veterinary hospitals, and allied animal care businesses.
The Bill allows services to be provided through mobile services and telehealth, strengthens oversight of veterinary professionals and businesses, and introduces a risk-based complaints system the government says is fairer and more flexible for both veterinarians and applicants. It will also establish a modern Veterinary Services Board, which will include a veterinary nurse representative, with clearer powers to regulate the sector.
The government’s consultation received 236 responses from the veterinary profession, animal welfare organisations and the community, with 81 per cent supporting the reforms.
The reform package builds on funding for 90 scholarships for vet students to study in regional NSW, and a program to attract vet professionals to regional NSW that has seen 47 veterinarians and nurses relocate.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the Bill better supported the profession.
“The Minns Government’s Bill better supports the veterinarians, veterinary nurses and technicians who play a critical role in protecting animal health, caring for pets and livestock, and safeguarding our biosecurity systems,” Ms Moriarty said.
“These changes support a sustainable veterinary profession and strong animal welfare outcomes.”
“These reforms are recognising the important contribution of veterinary nurses and technologists, who for too long have not been appropriately recognised for their professional contribution.”
“Our Government is committed to rebuilding the essential regional communities need, and we are demonstrating that with a Bill that delivers solutions and benefits for the community.”
Veterinary Practitioners Board of NSW President Dr Magdoline Awad said the Bill was a welcome milestone.
“The introduction of this Bill is a welcome and important milestone in modernising the veterinary regulatory framework for NSW,” Dr Awad said.
Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia President Asha Yeoman said registration was a significant step forward for the profession.
“The introduction of registration for veterinary nurses and technologists is a significant step forward for our profession,” Ms Yeoman said.
“It recognises the skills, training and expertise veterinary nurses and technologists bring to animal care every day, while ensuring consistent professional standards across the sector.”
“These reforms are long overdue and represent an important investment in the future of veterinary services in NSW.
“By recognising veterinary nurses and technologists as key members of the veterinary workforce, the Government is helping build a stronger, more sustainable profession for the future.”
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