For Immediate Release
On Thursday, 27 March 2025, Vets for Climate Action (VfCA) will host a critical event at Parliament House, Canberra. The gathering will spotlight the devastating effects climate pollution is having on animal health, biosecurity, biodiversity, and livelihoods. Veterinary professionals—trusted experts to business, government, farmers and families—will urge policymakers to take decisive action.
Five years after the Black Summer Fires claimed three billion animal lives, Vets for Climate Action (VfCA) says more action is needed to cut climate pollution in the lead up to the Federal election.
Since Black Summer, Australia has faced more unnatural disasters—fires, floods, and disease outbreaks—killing countless animals. The latest ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, made more intense and damaging due to climate pollution, has caused millions in stock losses, blown koalas from trees, swept seabirds inland, and left endangered grey-headed flying foxes, kangaroos, swamphens, bats, and snakes injured or dead.
Dr. Jeannet Kessels, veterinarian and VfCA founder said:
“Australians share a deep connection with our native wildlife, and the harrowing images of injured and displaced koalas from the Black Summer bushfires are seared into our memories. Vets for Climate Action was established during the 2019 Black Summer Fires to protect all animals - livestock, wildlife and our beloved pets - and to advocate for stronger action from governments to reduce climate pollution. Veterinarians and vet nurses are on the frontlines of this crisis, and we're urgently calling for policies to safeguard animal health and welfare.”
"Despite progress, we must do better for our animals," said VfCA CEO Steff Goldring. "Governments must prioritise human and animal lives, accelerate the transition to renewable energy, and strengthen environmental laws. We urge the next Government to reform the EPBC Act, including an emissions trigger to reject projects with unacceptable climate impacts."
Veterinary Voices to Parliament – A Call to Action
Event Highlights:
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A short film showcasing veterinarians on the frontlines of climate change.
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Esteemed speakers, including Nobel laureate and IPCC Vice-Chair Prof. Mark Howden, and VfCA founder and Board Director, Dr. Jeannet Kessels.
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Opportunities for MPs to engage directly with veterinary experts
Event Details:
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Date: Thursday, 27 March 2025
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Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM AEDT
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Location: Speaker’s Courtyard, Parliament House, Canberra
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RSVP: Monday, 24 March 2025, to [email protected]
With the support of The Hon. Mr. Milton Dick MP, Speaker of the House of Representatives, VfCA has invited all Members of Parliament to attend this critical conversation.
Launching Policy Priorities to Protect Animal Health
At the event, VfCA will unveil its Policy Priorities, calling for urgent government action, including:
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End Fossil Fuel Projects – Stop new coal, oil, and gas projects.
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Accelerate Renewable Energy – Fund electrification, efficiency upgrades, and battery storage for homes, businesses, and community facilities like animal shelters.
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End Deforestation & Native Forest Logging – Protect vital wildlife habitats.
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Strengthen Environmental Laws – Ensure stronger biodiversity protections.
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Support Veterinary Professionals – Establish a National Animal Disaster Fund to compensate private vets for emergency care during disasters.
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Commit to Low Emissions Agriculture – Promote more sustainable farming.
Veterinary Professionals Demand Stronger Climate Policies
This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from veterinary professionals who witness the devastating effects of climate change daily. Their message is clear: the time for action is now.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Stefany Goldring
CEO, Vets for Climate Action
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0404 219 278
### About Vets for Climate Action
Veterinary professionals advise governments, businesses, farmers, and families. We know that animal health and welfare are vital to our future, yet climate change threatens both—along with biodiversity, biosecurity, livelihoods, and mental well-being.
Vets for Climate Action represents veterinarians, vet nurses, practices, and industry partners across Australia, who want immediate climate action. We educate our profession and communities, reduce our sector’s emissions, and advocate for sustainable veterinary care at every level.
Website: www.vfca.org.au