In 2025, the Veterinary Practice Board of Western Australia (VPBWA) updated the way veterinary nurses are recognised in WA, introducing the new Advanced Veterinary Nurse (AVN) and Advanced Veterinary Nurse – Restricted (AVN-restricted) classifications.
These new professional classifications acknowledge the advanced knowledge, skills and clinical experience demonstrated by many of WA’s veterinary nurses and technologists across WA. They represent an important step towards strengthening patient care standards and aligning veterinary nursing with the evolving needs of modern veterinary practice.
The introduction of these classifications also helps create clearer professional and career development pathways for veterinary nurses in WA. By formally recognising advanced skills and experience, the framework supports ongoing professional growth and highlights veterinary nursing as a developing long-term career within the veterinary industry.
How AVT is supporting Veterinary Nurses
AVT has released a series of micro-credentials (short courses) designed to help veterinary nurses with more topics currently being written. These micro-credentials will assist veterinary nurses to:
- 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.
They are also ideal for veterinary nurses across Australia seeking continuing education opportunities, with all courses eligible for the Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia, AVNAT CPD points.
AVT training opportunities
Micro-credentials
Explore AVT’s short micro-credential courses designed to help veterinary nurses strengthen practical skills, support patient care and continue their professional development.
Typically, courses take around 4 hours per topic to complete and include a straightforward practical activity to help demonstrate newly developed skills and knowledge.
Clinical procedures
Patient care & monitoring
What does this mean for WA Veterinary Practices?
The classifications impact how veterinary nurses are authorised to perform specific duties, with some procedures only permitted to be carried out by those recognised as Advanced Veterinary Nurses – Restricted.
This means nursing team members should now be registered to ensure compliance and maintain smooth clinical operations.
Steps to Support Your Veterinary Nursing Team
Review your Veterinary Nursing Team
Review your veterinary nursing team’s current qualifications and experience.
Read the Guidelines
Identify Eligible Team Members
Identify nurses who may already qualify for Advanced or Restricted recognition.
Support and Encourage Applications
Encourage eligible nurses to apply for professional recognition.
Create a Training Plan
Identify training gaps and future development opportunities for other nurses.
What is an Advanced Veterinary Nurse?
An Advanced Veterinary Nurse is a registered veterinary nurse who has completed a higher-level qualification (such as a Diploma or Bachelor degree approved by the VPBWA).
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 an Advanced Veterinary Nurse – Restricted?
Advanced Veterinary Nurse – Restricted classification provides 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.
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