State adds $5 million to vet school

Animal Science

The capital funding for the University of Adelaide's planned new veterinary science school is secured with the State Government's announcement of a $5 million grant.

South Australian Premier Mike Rann and Further Education Minister Paul Caica made the announcement during a visit to the University's Roseworthy Campus to see where the vet school will be based.

The State funding follows on from an earlier $15 million funded by the Federal Government. A further $10 million will be invested in capital works by the University.

"This State Government funding means the last piece of capital funding is now in place," said University Chancellor the Hon. John von Doussa.

"The University Council is very grateful for the support of the State Government in this significant development for the University and for the State."

There is already strong demand for entry to the vet school. Applications currently stand at 149 first preference applicants for 40 places in the University's three-year pre-veterinary Animal Science undergraduate degree starting next year. There will be 50 places a year for the postgraduate veterinary science degree starting in 2011.

"The University is keen to help meet unmet national demand for veterinary science and, in particular, to address the serious shortage of rural-based vets in South Australia," said the University's Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor James McWha.

"As well as a broad training in veterinary science, veterinary students at the University of Adelaide will have a unique focus on the needs of Australian livestock production, equine health, aquaculture and biosecurity industries.

"The University's Roseworthy Campus already has a strong international brand in agriculture and animal science research and teaching. Adding veterinary science to its programs will help cement its place as a leader in science, research and innovation for the State's animal health and agricultural industries."

Story by Robyn Mills