Practical support for veterinary professionals and their families when life gets difficult.
If you or someone you know is going through a difficult time, please reach out. No circumstance is too small, and no request is insignificant. We are here to listen and to help.
You do not need to be an AVA member to access support. All conversations are strictly confidential.
About the Fund
Over thirty years ago, three veterinarians Bob Taylor, Bill Sidman and Bertie Seddon recognised the need for a practical way to help colleagues and their families who found themselves in difficult circumstances, often through no fault of their own. They established the Australian Veterinary Association Benevolent Fund.
The Fund is managed by four voluntary Trustees, all veterinary surgeons, appointed by the AVA Board. It is run by the profession, for the profession.
The Fund has also been active in preventive wellbeing, including the Bob Taylor Wellness area at the AVA Annual Conference — a reflection of its commitment not just to helping people in crisis, but to keeping the profession healthy and well.
Who can access support?
The Fund is open to any veterinarian and their family experiencing financial hardship, whether or not they are an AVA member. Circumstances that can lead to hardship include:
- Accident, illness or injury
- Unemployment
- Bereavement
- Natural disaster
- Unforeseen circumstances
How do I access help from the fund?
1. Funded by your peers
Peers and donors from Australia and around the world donate to the Fund to help veterinary professionals like you who might be going through a rough patch.
2. You need support
You are a member or non-member experiencing financial hardship. Everyone has their own circumstances, but some examples which can lead to financial hardship include: Accidents, illness and injury Unemployment Passing in the family Natural disaster Unforeseen life circumstances
3. Reach out
Make the first step- No circumstance is insignificant, and no request is too small. Your situation matters to us and we want you to reach out. Contact AVA Member Services (even if you are not a member) for a confidential, understanding discussion around your circumstances. We’ll then put you in touch with one of the Veterinary Benevolent Fund Trustees. We’re here to listen, and to help.
4.Talk to a Trustee
After reaching out to AVA Member Services (even if you are not a member), a Trustee will contact you usually within 48 hours. Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for immediate help. Here you will have the opportunity to discuss your circumstances in more detail so we can understand how we can assist you during this difficult time.
5. Receive support
Funds are deposited through direct bank transfer, and you may also be referred to other support services such as the AVA Counselling Service for assistance.
How you can support
Make a Donation
Support a colleague in need by donating to the Fund. Contact Member Services to give.
Bushfire relief
Support vets financially impacted by bushfires and those doing pro-bono work to assist injured animals.
Frequently asked questions
100% of the money donated will go to assist veterinarians impacted by adverse circumstances such as floods, fires, storms, personal tragedy etc. Where a donation is response to a disaster involving wildlife, they will go towards those treating injured animals including wildlife. This will help to cover the costs of drugs, materials and treatments, so that the veterinarians are not out-of-pocket and can continue to provide these important services in affected areas.
Anyone can apply for assistance and the VBF Trustees will make a decision based on available funds and resources.
The VBF will review ongoing cost-free counselling on a case by case basis cognisant of the funds available.
This will depend on how many applications for assistance we receive. We will endeavour to respond immediately in an emergency situation. It may take longer if there are many requests or group counselling is required.
You can make an application, or we can put you in contact with other veterinary relief organisations.
AVA will provide links to support structures in crisis or disaster affected states. Check out the AVA website there are links to resources in various states. Members will also receive updates via AVA communications.
With Special Thanks To
Our valued supporters
