Question Time

Veterinary Services Bill

The Hon. N.J. CENTOFANTI (Leader of the Opposition) (14:18): My question is to the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development regarding the veterinary services bill 2022. When is the minister planning on releasing the final draft of the veterinary services bill and introducing this important bill to the parliament?

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries) (14:18): I thank the honourable member for her question. It's a very important bill. I think I have spoken about it on a number of occasions in other contexts, particularly in the media a few weeks ago around the barriers that currently exist that may perhaps contribute or certainly not assist with the issues around the shortage of vets in South Australia, and also some of the mental health issues that are faced by many within the profession.

The draft bill has been drafted and had some consultation. I expect to be able to introduce it, following some other refinements, in the near future. There are still a few other processes to go through. I have been very pleased with the amount of engagement that we have had on the drafting of the bill, both in terms of what is needed for the industry to be able to bring the act up to what is current veterinary practice and current services that are provided within veterinary practices, and I will continue to consult and I look forward to being able to bring something to the house in the near future.