This session outlines veterinary careers in government, and the role of the Australian Chief Veterinary Officer and government veterinarians in disease management, surveillance, animal health policy and international engagement.
The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment is a significant employer of veterinarians in Australia and this session describes the important work which takes place around Australia (in offices, airports, mail centres, shipping ports, laboratories and abattoirs) as well as in various locations overseas.
As Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Schipp is supported by an expert team of veterinarians, scientists and policy makers, and his team’s activities are critical to Australia’s biosecurity system by protecting the health of our animals, people and environment and identifying risks and opportunities for Australia’s animal health system.
Their work includes:
- developing national policies and strategies, and providing scientific advice that minimises the potential impacts of diseases on Australia’s animal population
- meeting Australia’s international animal health commitments, including disease reporting and standard setting
- supporting and enhancing trade and market access for animals and animal products
- liaising with public health, environmental and veterinary experts and agencies to advocate cooperation between animal, human and environmental health fields.
Resources to assist veterinarians with identifying emergency animal diseases are also shared.
