The object of the Veterinary Practice Act 2003 is to regulate the provision of veterinary services in NSW for the following purposes:

• To promote the welfare of animals
• To ensure consumers of veterinary services are well informed as to the competencies required of veterinary practitioners
• To ensure that acceptable standards are required to be met by veterinary practitioners so as to meet the public interest and national and international trade requirements
• To provide public health protection.


The Board achieves these purposes through performing a number of functions including: the registration of veterinary practitioners and licensing of veterinary hospitals; investigation of complaints against veterinary practitioners; developing codes of professional conduct for veterinary practitioners; enforcing the provisions of the Act and Regulation; promoting professional development of veterinary practitioners; and providing information to veterinary practitioners and consumers of veterinary services.

The Board cooperates with other jurisdictions in Australia and New Zealand to further a common and harmonious approach to regulation of the veterinary profession. This function is assisted through interaction with other state veterinary boards, the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council Inc. (AVBC), and organisations representing the interests of members of the veterinary profession such as the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA).