18 December 2025
The Australasian Veterinary Boards Council Inc (AVBC) has unanimously approved a transition to a company limited by guarantee, marking a significant milestone in the organisation’s evolution as the peak body for veterinary education standards across Australia and New Zealand.
At a Special General Meeting held on 15 December 2025, the Council of Members passed a special resolution to transfer AVBC’s incorporation from an incorporated association to a company limited by guarantee under Commonwealth legislation. The decision reflects a strategic alignment with contemporary governance expectations for national organisations operating across multiple jurisdictions.
A Strategic Evolution
The new corporate structure will enable AVBC to apply for registration as a charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) under the charitable purpose of advancing education. This designation recognises AVBC’s fundamental role in safeguarding the quality and consistency of veterinary education in the public interest.
Importantly, the transfer does not create a new organisation. AVBC remains the same legal entity and will continue to perform its existing functions without interruption. All existing rights, obligations, contractual arrangements, and relationships remain in force.
The transition also ensures compliance with section 601CA of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) and strengthens AVBC’s standing within New Zealand and the international veterinary education and regulatory community.
Modernised Purpose and Governance
The revised Constitution clarifies AVBC’s principal purpose as advancing education by ensuring and maintaining the standards, curriculum, training, and assessment of veterinary education. This articulation directly supports the organisation’s charitable objectives and reflects its long-standing quality assurance role.
The governance framework continues to be centred on the Council of Members, comprising veterinary statutory authorities from each Australian State and Territory, together with the Veterinary Council of New Zealand. Key governance features include:
- A Board appointed by Members to provide strategic oversight and maintain appropriate separation between governance and management functions
- A Council President elected from among Member Representatives
- A Chief Executive Officer appointed by and accountable to the Board
The Constitution incorporates all not-for-profit, winding-up, and compliance provisions required for ACNC registration and Australian Taxation Office income tax exemption, providing a robust framework for transparent and accountable operations.
Ms Kate Simkovic, Chief Executive Officer of AVBC, said: “This decision reflects the collective commitment of Members to strong, contemporary governance that supports AVBC’s critical role in safeguarding veterinary education standards. Transitioning to a company limited by guarantee positions the organisation for long-term sustainability, enhances regulatory credibility, and enables us to operate with greater clarity and accountability in the public interest.”
Looking Ahead
AVBC will now proceed with formal implementation steps, including notifying relevant regulators, registering as a company limited by guarantee, and lodging an application for charity registration with the ACNC.
The transfer represents an important evolution in AVBC’s governance arrangements, establishing a contemporary legal framework that supports transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability while enabling the organisation to continue advancing veterinary education standards across Australasia.
About AVBC
The Australasian Veterinary Boards Council (ABN 49 337 540 469) is the peak body responsible for veterinary education standards, accreditation, and compliance across Australia and New Zealand.
For more information, visit avbc.asn.au or contact comms@avbc.asn.au.