The Veterinary Officer (VO) works as a member of the Animal Health and Welfare Unit, to ensure the delivery of major animal health projects such as disease surveillance; livestock legislation and enforcement management; and traceability and auditing. As a member of the South East team, the VO is responsible for providing assistance to regional South East animal health districts.

You will contribute to leading disease and animal welfare investigations in South East animal health districts, by utilising your clinical experience in the prevention, investigation, diagnosis, control, eradication and treatment of diseases of livestock in Victoria. In the process, you will establish strong working relationships with various internal and external stakeholders, a well as local and state government agencies.

As this is a regulatory position, you will be required to conduct investigations and give evidence in court. Candidates must become authorised to implement the requirements and administration of the Livestock Disease Control Act, Livestock Management Act, Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, Stock (Seller Liability and Declaration) Act and Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act, as well as adopt and apply WH&S policies and procedures to ensure a safe work environment.

Other key accountabilities include, but are not limited to:

• Monitor and provide quality assurance and feedback on the delivery of the Animal Health and Welfare Program within the district
• Manage livestock disease investigation, diagnosis, control and prevention programs and animal welfare investigations in the district, including maintaining strong relationships with private veterinarians through the Significant Disease Investigation (SDI) Program
• Ensure compliance with the statutory requirements of the Acts and Regulations administered by Animal Health and Welfare Unit
• Contribute to the development and implementation of other livestock industry research and extension projects
• Lead the development of plans, manage preparation and implement procedures to ensure preparedness, response to, and recovery from agricultural emergencies

This position reports to the Regional Manager – Animal Health and Welfare.