Our programs
Changing the world, one (achievable!) step at a time
Working out how to make a difference can be overwhelming. AVEA’s programs turn veterinary expertise, scientific evidence and real-world experience into practical, achievable steps towards sustainability — each designed with the people doing the work, day to day.
From helping clinics cut their footprint to sharing knowledge through our Masterclasses and pushing for better environmental policies, our programs are about turning good intentions into action.
Climate Care Program
A practical, self-paced online sustainability program designed specifically for veterinary practices. The Climate Care Program helps clinics reduce their environmental impact and operating costs, engage their whole team in positive change, and demonstrate their commitment to caring for all animals — not just the ones that come through the clinic door.
Designed to fit around the demands of a busy veterinary practice, the Climate Care Program was developed by veterinary professionals who understand the realities of day-to-day practice.
ZerOctober
The veterinary profession’s annual month of sustainable action, spearheaded by AVEA. Each October, clinics across Australia commit to one or more sustainability initiatives — from energy audits to waste reduction and beyond. We celebrate each other’s victories — but also have fun competing with one another!
Sustainable Equine Futures
A new program designed with and for Australia’s equine community — vets, breeders, stables and owners — to reduce the footprint of equine management and care. This program is currently being refined and we welcome organisations that would like to be involved to reach out.
Education
Education is one of the cornerstones of the work we do. From working to include sustainable practices in university curriculum to educating the public, we know that people can only act with the information they have.
We regularly run Masterclasses — free online sessions led by veterinary specialists and researchers on the practical challenges facing the profession — from the carbon cost of inhalational anaesthesia to the science of heat stress. Open to vets, vet nurses and anyone working with animals in Australia.
Policy, Advocacy and Community Engagement
AVEA represents the veterinary perspective in government submissions, parliamentary briefings and media. Our positions are led by the evidence — rigorous science combined with the experience of people who see Australia’s animal and environmental challenges firsthand. AVEA is strictly non-partisan: we support policies that protect Australia’s animals, industries and environment, and call out decisions that damage them regardless of who’s making them.
Rural and Regional Program
Our goal is to bring AVEA’s work to the parts of Australia where animals, land and livelihoods are most directly exposed to environmental pressures, in partnership with rural vets, farmers and First Nations communities. This program is nascent and needs your help to be built from the ground up.