Freedom of Information
Under the Freedom Of Information Act 1991 the Board as a government agency is obliged to provide access to personal files and to provide copies of information contained in these files to the person concerned. In this context the relevant files are those containing information on initial application for registration as a veterinary surgeon, veterinary specialist or veterinary company. The Board is not obliged to provide access or copies of information relating to the investigation of complaints on normal request. However, it may be prepared to provide some access under certain circumstances, and will treat each request on its merits.
Requests for access to documents should be directed to the Freedom of Information Officer, in writing and accompanied by a $20 fee (be advised that there may also be processing charges). The Board produces an Information Statement, (below), which lists the structure of the Board, functions, FOI summary and publications.
Information Statement of The Veterinary Surgeons Board of SA
The Veterinary Surgeons Board - Structure
The Board consists of 7 members appointed by the Governor, of whom 6 are nominated by the Minister, and one (who shall be a veterinary surgeon) nominated by the Australian Veterinary Association Ltd (SA Division). Of the 6 Ministerial nominations, one is a legal practitioner, 3 are veterinary surgeons and 2 are laypersons.
Functions of the Board
- To administer the Veterinary Practice Act 2003, and its Regulations.
- To maintain a register of persons qualified to practise veterinary surgery in accordance with this Act; and of persons entitled to be registered as Veterinary Specialists under this Act; and of persons removed from the Register for disciplinary reasons.
- To regulate the practice of veterinary surgery in South Australia.
- To consider complaints.
The Board appoints a Registrar, who handles enquiries from the public on a day to day basis. Complaints, or any matter that a member of the public may wish discussed by the Board, should be in writing, and directed to: The Registrar, PO Box 218 Walkerville 5081.
Freedom of Information Officer
The Registrar of the Board is designated as the Freedom of Information Officer for the Board.
She is obliged to provide access to personal files and to provide copies of information contained in these files to the individual concerned on receipt of application for access. (Fees apply). The Board is not obliged to provide access or copies of information relating to the investigation of complaints on normal request. However, it may be prepared to provide some access under certain circumstances, and will treat each request on its merits.
Publications
- Annual Report, incorporating a statement of audited accounts.
- Handbook for Veterinary Surgeons (Information, guidelines and policies of the Board, issued free with registration, additional copies $5.50 each).
- Copies of the Register of Veterinary Surgeons, Register of Veterinary Specialists, and Register of Veterinarians removed from the Register, are available for a fee.
- Guidelines for Hospital Accreditation, Veterinary Services Providers, Prescribed Business Interests, are available free of charge.
- Listings of Veterinary Hospitals, Veterinary Services Providers, and Prescribed Business Interests are available for inspection.
Contact Details
The Registrar, Ms Sue Millbank
Email: vsbsa@senet.com.au
Phone: +61 8 8269 3216
Mail: PO Box 218, Walkerville, Adelaide 5081