Australian Veterinary Association Conference 2026
May 18 @ 8:00 am - May 21 @ 5:00 pm
May 19 @ 1:00 am - May 22 @ 10:00 am NZST
Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) Conference 2026
18–21 May 2026 | Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
The AVA’s flagship annual conference returns to Brisbane for the first time since 2018, bringing together veterinarians, researchers, and industry leaders from across Australia and beyond.
What to expect:
8-stream scientific program
THRIVE & Research Day integrated into the core program
Extended delegate breaks (no concurrent scientific sessions)
AVA Awards Gala Dinner held on Wednesday evening
Start-Up Hub highlighting innovation in the veterinary sector
Scientific focus:
The 2026 theme, Connection, Collaboration, and Knowledge, centres on neurology, behaviour, and knowledge exchange, with content designed to support both clinical practice and professional growth.
Keynote speakers include:
- Prof. Marion Desmarchelier (Canada) – Zoological medicine specialist and veterinary behaviourist
- Prof. Joe Mayhew (New Zealand) – Emeritus Professor, Massey University; equine clinician and expert in large animal neurology
- Prof. David Hayman (New Zealand) – Epizootic epidemiologist and disease ecologist
- Prof. Holger A. Volk (Germany) – Small animal neurologist