Veterinary Nursing

This qualification reflects the use of a veterinary nurse who works under the supervision of a registered vet to provide nursing care to creatures, to encourage veterinarians to perform surgical and medical treatments, and to encourage customers to keep health of animals.The Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing requires access to patients (creatures ), customers, surgical and medical circumstances, veterinary staff, and practice policies and procedures.To accomplish that qualification, the candidate will need to have completed at least 240 hours of work placement as detailed in the Assessment Requirements of the units of competency.The range of training for veterinary nurses is dependent on territory and state legislative and regulatory conditions. Clients with the eligibility must refer to the appropriate legislation and regulations in the evolution of training and appraisal plans.

Program Overview

The Veterinary Nursing program at GOTAFE is a comprehensive qualification designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in animal healthcare settings. This Diploma level course provides students with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to support veterinarians and provide high-quality care to a wide variety of animals. Throughout the program, students will gain a strong theoretical foundation in veterinary anatomy, physiology, and nutrition, along with hands-on experience in animal handling, clinical procedures, and nursing techniques. The curriculum includes modules on animal behavior, first aid, medication administration, and surgical assisting, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to work effectively in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, and other animal care facilities.

The program emphasizes practical training through workplace learning and industry placements, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world environments under professional supervision. This experiential component is vital for developing confidence and competence in animal handling, diagnostic procedures, and maintaining veterinary health records. Students will also learn about the importance of animal welfare, ethical considerations in veterinary practice, and client communication skills to ensure a compassionate approach to animal care.

GOTAFE's Veterinary Nursing program is delivered by experienced industry professionals and dedicated educators who are committed to student success. The flexible delivery options, including online study components and scheduled practical sessions, enable students to balance their studies with other commitments. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be eligible to register as a Veterinary Nurse and pursue employment opportunities in various animal healthcare settings, contributing to the health and well-being of animals in their community.

This program is ideal for those passionate about animals and interested in a career that combines science, healthcare, and compassion. It provides a solid foundation for career advancement within the veterinary industry and can serve as a stepping stone to further education and specialization in the field of veterinary medicine. Whether you aspire to work in a small animal practice, equine clinic, or animal shelter, the GOTAFE Veterinary Nursing program prepares you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and their owners.

Entry within this eligibility is open to those who:hold a Certificate II in Animal StudiesORhold a relevant Certificate III or higher degree qualification in a creature science disciplineORcan demonstrate equivalent knowledge and skills in a relevant animal science field to any of the above mentioned qualifications.Refer to the Companion Volume Implementation Guide for details.

The financing of the Veterinary Nursing program at GOTAFE is designed to support students through various funding options, ensuring accessible education for all eligible applicants. Students can explore government-supported financial assistance such as VET Student Loans, which enables eligible students to defer tuition payments, making the cost of their studies more manageable over time. The VET Student Loans scheme provides a loan to cover part or all of the tuition fees, repayable after the student’s income reaches a certain threshold. To qualify, students must meet specific eligibility criteria, including Australian or NZ citizenship or residency status and enrollment in an approved course. Additionally, GOTAFE offers information and guidance on scholarships and bursaries available to students, aiming to reduce financial barriers and promote equitable access to veterinary nursing education. Students are encouraged to investigate state and federal government grants, as well as funding options from industry partners, which might provide financial support or subsidies. The cost structure of the program includes tuition fees, which vary depending on the student’s residency status, with domestic students typically paying lower fees supported by government subsidies. International students are subject to different fee arrangements and are responsible for paying higher tuition rates without access to government-subsidized loans. GOTAFE also provides detailed advice during enrolment sessions and via student support services to help applicants understand their financial obligations and plan accordingly. Payment plans may be available for tuition fees, allowing students to spread payments over a specified period. The institution emphasizes transparency in all financial dealings and urges students to consider their long-term financial commitments before enrollment. Moreover, the institution offers flexible payment options and financial counseling to assist students in managing their study expenses effectively. Overall, the scholarship and funding landscape at GOTAFE is structured to support diverse student needs, ensuring capable and passionate individuals can access and complete the Veterinary Nursing program without undue financial stress.

The Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing at GOTAFE is designed to provide students with comprehensive education and practical skills necessary to work as qualified veterinary nurses. This program covers a broad range of topics, including animal healthcare, nursing procedures, client communication, and practice management, preparing graduates to support veterinarians across various clinical settings. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on training through laboratory work, work placement, and simulated clinical scenarios, ensuring students gain real-world experience before entering the workforce. Students will learn about animal anatomy and physiology, surgical assisting, laboratory techniques, anesthesia, pharmacology, and animal welfare, equipping them to handle a diverse array of responsibilities in veterinary clinics, hospitals, and shelters. GOTAFE’s facilities offer state-of-the-art resources to enhance practical learning, and partnerships with local veterinary practices provide valuable work placement opportunities. The program aligns with industry standards and aims to meet the growing demand for veterinary nurses across the region. Graduates of this qualification are eligible to register with the Australian Veterinary Nurse Registration Board (AVNRB) and pursue employment in various roles such as veterinary nurse, animal care technician, or clinic support staff. The course typically takes around 12 months to complete on a full-time basis, and students are encouraged to develop not only technical knowledge but also communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills essential for effective practice. Post-completion, many students choose to further their education with advanced certificates or diplomas, or specialize in areas such as anesthesia or practice management. GOTAFE’s emphasis on industry relevance, combined with experienced instructors and modern facilities, aims to produce competent professionals ready to contribute positively to animal health and welfare.