WELCOME TO THE 2027 AVA CONFERENCE 

We are excited to welcome the profession back to Melbourne, Victoria for the 2027 AVA Conference at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. 

“Critical care, critical thinking,” will explore the vital role veterinary professionals play in emergency and critical care, disaster preparedness, leadership, teamwork and decision-making across animal health systems.

From frontline clinicians and veterinary nurses to researchers, educators, industry leaders and government veterinarians, every role contributes to preparedness, response and recovery. By bringing these perspectives together, AVA Conference connects people, evidence and systems to support a capable, collaborative profession ready to respond when it matters most.

Global thought leaders in critical care and animal behaviour will join leading Australian experts to deliver a carefully curated program designed to advance veterinary science, strengthen professional capability and support personal growth. 

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Prof Heather Bacon (UK)

University of Lancashire Dean and expert in companion and zoo animal behaviour and welfare. Heather has worked in the UK and internationally and has a particular interest in veterinary skills training, clinical and ethical reasoning, and animal behaviour and welfare. Heather holds a postgraduate certificate in zoological medicine, is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, and in 2021, was awarded an OBE for services to veterinary education and animal welfare.

 

Dr Darien Feary (AUS)

Dual-boarded specialist in both Large Animal Internal Medicine and Equine Emergency and Critical Care. Darien is passionate about intensive care of all critically ill equine patients including neonatal foals.

 

Assoc Prof Claire Sharp (AUS)

Specialist in small animal emergency and critical care in the School of Veterinary Medicine at Murdoch University. A Murdoch graduate, Claire did her specialty training at the University of Missouri and went on to be a faculty member at Tufts University before returning to Perth. Claire’s special interests include trauma, sepsis, coagulation, biomarkers, haematology, and transfusion medicine.

 

Dr Marie Holowaychuk (CAN) 

Dr. Marie Holowaychuk is a board-certified veterinary emergency and critical care (ECC) specialist with over 20 years of experience in clinical practice and academia across North America. She currently works as a locum relief specialist in emergency hospitals, giving her a current perspective on the diverse challenges facing frontline teams. A prolific researcher, Marie has authored over 30 peer-reviewed articles and is the author of A Compassionate Calling: What It Really Means To Be a Veterinarian. As an international speaker and the founder of Reviving Veterinary Medicine, she helps ECC teams manage high-stakes cases confidently while protecting their career sustainability.   
 

EXPRESS YOUR INTEREST TO BE A SPEAKER TODAY

 

ABOUT THE
AVA CONFERENCE  

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) Conference is the premier event for veterinary professionals across the country – bringing together more than 1,000 leading experts, practitioners and industry partners for an unparalleled learning and networking experience.  

Designed by vets, for vets, the AVA Conference is renowned for its 100% independent, high-quality scientific program. Our vibrant exhibition and engaging social events provide opportunities to build meaningful connections with peers who share a passion for advancing animal health and welfare.  

Blending professional excellence with a strong sense of community, the AVA Conference continues to set the benchmark for veterinary continuing education and collaboration in Australia. 

Putting purpose before profit, your AVA Conference registration dollar supports: 

  • Advocacy on behalf of all veterinary professionals across Australia 

  • A voice for vets to drive meaningful policy change and build trust and pride within the profession

  • Community and wellbeing, through initiatives that strengthen professional connection and support veterinary mental health 

  • An exceptional conference and learning experience for you! 

AVA Conference 2027