July 30, 2025

AVT becomes Platinum Education Partner with VNCA

We’re proud to announce that Applied Vocational Training (AVT) is a Platinum Education Partner with the Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia (VNCA) for 2025-2026.

This exciting partnership reinforces our ongoing commitment to supporting Veterinary Nurses through high-quality, industry-relevant qualifications and short courses. It also reflects our shared vision with the VNCA to raise professional standards and improve outcomes for both animal patients and the people who care for them.

Supporting ongoing learning with AVNAT-Approved CPD courses

As part of our Platinum Partnership, several of AVT’s courses have now been approved as Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities under the AVNAT registration scheme.

How Veterinary Nurses can earn AVNAT CPD Points at AVT

Whether vet nurses are seeking to specialise, upskill or maintain their professional registration, these AVNAT-endorsed CPD courses offer flexible, practical learning options for veterinary professionals across Australia:

Animal behaviour qualification and course with CPD Points

ACM40322 Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training

20 CPD points
Enhance clinical skills with a deeper understanding of animal behaviour. Ideal for vet nurses looking to integrate behaviour-based approaches into patient care and handling.

Canine Behaviour Consultant Course

15 CPD points
Expand canine behaviour knowledge to better support clients with challenging cases. This advanced course equips vet nurses with tools for behavioural consultations and collaborative care.

Veterinary Workplace Mental Health & Wellbeing Skills

5 CPD points Created to help you care for your own wellbeing, support your colleagues, and contribute to making your veterinary workplace a great place to work

Online courses with CPD Points

Equine Veterinary Nursing

20 CPD points
Designed for qualified vet nurses, this course deepens knowledge of equine care, diagnostics, procedures and patient handling in veterinary practice.

Horse Care Fundamentals

10 CPD points
Refresh and expand foundational equine knowledge with this flexible course, ideal for vet nurses transitioning into mixed or equine-focused practice.

Australian Wildlife Care (Native Mammals)

5 CPD points
Designed for anyone eager to make a positive impact in the care and welfare of common native mammals.

Workshops and webinars

2 CPD points
From time to time, we hold special events via workshops and webinars. This is an excellent opportunity for graduates and industry professionals to obtain additional points and learn the latest developments across animal care, veterinary nursing and animal behaviour and training.

What is the AVNAT registration scheme?

Launched by the VNCA in 2019, the Australian Veterinary Nurse and Technologist (AVNAT) registration scheme is a national initiative to support and recognise qualified veterinary professionals via continuing education. AVNAT promotes:

Professional recognition
Standards of practice
Continued learning and fitness to practise

"At AVT, we’re passionate about supporting the veterinary nursing profession, which is why I’m so pleased to be partnering with the VNCA through this Platinum Education Partnership. We’re committed to helping vet nurses continue their education and advance their careers. The AVNAT CPD points system is a valuable initiative that encourages lifelong learning, and we’re proud to contribute to this important step forward for our industry."

Dr Anne Beugelaar, Director (AVT)

Why CPD for Veterinary Nurses?

The AVNAT CPD program ensures that veterinary nurses are committed to maintaining current skills through CPD. Here’s why we think Veterinary Nurses should stay committed to learning:

Keep up with industry changes
From new procedures to advances in anaesthesia, pain management and patient care, CPD helps vet nurses stay current with the latest practices and technologies.
Improve patient outcomes
Ongoing learning leads to stronger clinical knowledge and more refined hands-on skills. By completing CPD activities, vet nurses are better equipped to support veterinarians during procedures, monitor patients effectively, and provide high-quality care throughout treatment and recovery, ultimately improving outcomes for patients.
Stand out from the crowd
Whether working towards a leadership role, looking to specialise, or simply wanting to boost a resume, CPD points help veterinary nurses stand out. Employers frequently tell us they actively seek nurses who pursue ongoing training and professional growth.
Boost confidence and share knowledge
CPD gives vet nurses the confidence to take on new challenges, contribute more meaningfully to patient care, and support their team. It also empowers them to mentor junior staff and share their knowledge with trainees, playing a valuable role in the growth of others.

Why our VNCA partnership matters

As a Platinum Education Partner, AVT is proud to contribute to a more professional, skilled and supported veterinary nursing community. We’re here to empower industry professionals, whether advancing their current role, transitioning into a new area or seeking registration under the AVNAT scheme.

AVNAT-Approved CPD Points Qualification and Courses

Behaviour and Training

ACM40322 Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training

Help others gain a better understanding and relationship with their dog by developing a knowledge of different dog characteristics and gaining an understanding of the science of training.

About Behaviour and Training

Animal Behaviour and Training

This is a 1 year course with online learning and practical training. You will gain a nationally recognised qualification and membership to the internationally renowned Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT)

View Course