Australian Vets Face Proposed Tax Changes

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) is joining forces with other professional and educational organizations urging the Federal Government to abandon the proposed cap to tax deductions for self-education expenses.

The new legislation will put a limit on tax deductions for self-education to $2,000, which the AVA says is way too low for vets who have to complete education each year to remain registered to practice.

President of AVA’s small animal special interest group, Dr David Neck said that skilled vets are essential to animal welfare.

“It’s critical that vets remain current on the latest treatments, technologies and innovations to make sure animals get the care they need.”

“I know that I want my own doctor and dentist to be current, up to date, and on top of new discoveries in their field. Animal owners want the same in their vets.”

“Vets have an average total income of $74,000 per annum and pay for their education out of this level of income.”

“Placing a limit on what they can claim as a tax deduction is bad policy, made on the run. The proposal should be abandoned or animal welfare in Australia will be compromised,” he said.

The amount of education a vet is required to complete to remain registered to practice is the same regardless of how much you earn, how many hours you work, or where you live.

“The policy will severely disadvantage those in rural and regional areas who are forced to travel long distances for education and pay higher travel and accommodation costs.”

“It will also disadvantage female vets working part-time or those just starting out who depend on tax deductions to complete their requirements to stay registered.”

“We urge the government to abandon the proposed $2,000 cap on tax deductions for self-education for the sake of the welfare of animals in Australia,” Dr Neck said.