The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1936 is the primary legislation regulating the practice of veterinary science in Queensland. It establishes who can practise veterinary science, the registration requirements for veterinary surgeons and specialists, the role of the Veterinary Surgeons Board of Queensland, and the framework for regulating veterinary premises and managing complaints and disciplinary matters.

The Act helps protect animal welfare, supports public confidence in veterinary services, and contributes to broader outcomes including biosecurity, public health and the effective delivery of veterinary services across Queensland. The current review is considering whether the Act remains fit-for-purpose and how it could be modernised to better reflect contemporary veterinary practice, workforce arrangements and service delivery models.