For those passionate about animal health and welfare, a career as a veterinary nurse offers an incredibly rewarding path. Vet nurses play a vital role in supporting veterinarians, providing essential patient care and ensuring the well-being of a wide range of animals.
If you enjoy hands-on work, problem-solving and making a difference in the lives of animals, becoming a vet nurse could be the perfect career for you. This role allows you to work closely with animals every day, assist in medical procedures and educate pet owners on responsible animal care. It also offers a diverse and dynamic work environment, with no two days ever being the same.
Vet nurses are at the heart of animal health care. They provide critical support in clinics and hospitals, ensuring pets receive the best possible care. From administering medications, to assisting in surgeries, their skills and knowledge help improve and even save the lives of animals. They also play an important role in preventing illness through education on pet nutrition, vaccinations and general health care.
Veterinary nurses take on a variety of responsibilities, including:
Veterinary nursing requires a combination of technical knowledge and practical skills, including:
Qualified vet nurses can find employment in various settings, including:
Beyond the technical skills, the best vet nurses are organised, positive, proactive and passionate about caring for animals, even in high-pressure situations. Find out if you’ve got the qualities to thrive in this role: What are the Top Qualities of a Veterinary Nurse?
As of early 2025, the average salary for a Veterinary Nurse in Australia ranges between AUD $46,000 and $59,000, based on minimum Award conditions outlined in the Animal Care and Veterinary Services Award (based on approx. award rates from fairwork.gov.au). In the current job market, however, advertised salaries for senior veterinary nursing roles are frequently higher, with ranges commonly around $75,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, location, and additional responsibilities. Several factors contribute to the variation in salaries:
While financial compensation is an important consideration, many Veterinary Nurses are driven by a profound passion for animal care and the fulfilment that comes from making a positive impact on animal health and well-being.
With pet ownership on the rise and an increasing focus on high-quality veterinary care, the demand for skilled vet nurses continues to grow. Those with advanced skills or experience in emergency, surgical or rehabilitation care are especially sought after.
To pursue a career as a veterinary nurse, completing an accredited qualification is essential. Two common pathways include:
Many aspiring vet nurses start by gaining hands-on experience through volunteering or working as veterinary assistants before progressing to formal qualifications.
A career in veterinary nursing is both challenging and fulfilling, offering the opportunity to make a genuine impact on the health and well-being of animals. With dedication and the right training, you can build a successful and meaningful career in this essential industry.
Skilled volunteers and foster carers play a crucial role in animal rescues, offering hands-on care and enrichment to animals in need. With formal training, you can take your compassion further and contribute meaningfully to animal welfare efforts.
Already a dog trainer, Kelby sought to expand her knowledge and refine her skills by enrolling in AVT’s Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training. Now, she feels more confident in supporting owners and taking on more challenging cases in her business, Full of Beans Dog Training.
Discover what it’s like to work as a dog trainer in a rescue setting. In this video, Amy, a trainer from the Dogs’ Refuge Home shares her journey, daily responsibilities, and the joy of helping rescue dogs find loving homes.
The leader in delivery of Australian Nationally Recognised Qualifications including ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (formerly Animal Studies), ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services, ACM40818 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing and ACM40322 Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training.
Applied Vocational Training (AVT) delivers a range of qualifications and short courses for students wishing to pursue a career working with animals.
AVT is a Registered Training Organisation based in Perth, Western Australia, providing on-campus and online courses to students studying throughout Australia. More about us →
We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land where our campus is based, the Whadjuk people of the Noongar Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and we commit to walking alongside our indigenous brothers and sisters. We extend that respect to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in our community.
Applied Vocational Training (AVT) is proudly a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 5273).
