The Veterinary Practice Board of Western Australia (VPBWA) has announced proposed changes to recognise a new level of veterinary nursing expertise, the Advanced Veterinary Nurse (AVN) and Advanced Veterinary Nurse – Restricted (AVN-restricted).
This new professional category acknowledges the advanced knowledge, skills and clinical experience demonstrated by many of WA’s veterinary nurses and technologists. It represents an important step in strengthening patient care standards and aligning veterinary nursing with the evolving needs of modern veterinary practice.
How AVT is preparing to support Veterinary Nurses
We’re currently developing a series of microcredentials (detailed short courses) designed to help veterinary nurses:
- Meet the requirements for Advanced Veterinary Nurse - Restricted classification
- Demonstrate competency in designated procedures
- Accrue AVNAT CPD points for continuing education
These learning pathways will help veterinary practices upskill their teams and ensure compliance as the new recognition framework takes effect.
Non-WA based veterinary nurses are also encouraged and welcome to undertake our microcredential series as part of their continuing education.
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What does this mean for WA Veterinary Practices?
The proposed changes are expected to impact how veterinary nurses are authorised to perform specific duties.
Once implemented, some procedures may only be carried out by those recognised as Advanced Veterinary Nurses – Restricted.
This means that getting your nursing team recognised and registered will become essential to ensure compliance and maintain smooth clinical operations.
For practice owners and managers, now is the time to:
- Review your nursing team’s qualifications
- Identify staff who may be eligible for Advanced or Restricted recognition
- Begin planning training pathways to meet the new requirements
What is an Advanced Veterinary Nurse?
An Advanced Veterinary Nurse will be a registered veterinary nurse who has completed a higher-level qualification (such as a Diploma or Bachelor degree approved by the VPBWA) and gained at least two years of clinical experience.
This recognition formally identifies veterinary nurses who possess advanced competence and can safely perform a wider range of clinical duties within veterinary practices.
What is a Advanced Veterinary Nurse – Restricted?
The Advanced Veterinary Nurse – Restricted pathway will provide an opportunity for experienced veterinary nurses who do not yet hold a higher qualification to gain recognition for their advanced skills.
To qualify, nurses must:
- Hold a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing or equivalent qualification
- Have a minimum of five years of clinical experience
- Be nominated by a supervising veterinarian who confirms their ability to perform or train in specific advanced procedures
While these nurses will not be permitted to use the title Advanced Veterinary Nurse, the restricted category allows them to continue performing certain advanced acts under supervision while progressing towards full recognition.
For more information about the changes, please see the Application For Recognition of Advanced Veterinary Nurses.
Stay informed
AVT will continue to share information and guidance to help veterinary nurses and practices stay prepared.
Subscribe to AVT updates to stay informed about changes to veterinary nurse registration in Western Australia and the release of our microcredentials.
