Vet Scheme to Aid New Zealand Producers
NEW ZEALAND - A scheme rewarding new vet graduates, who choose to work in understaffed rural areas, will benefit the practices they work at and rural communities.
24 February 2009
1 minute read
The voluntary bonding scheme for vets encourages new graduates to stay in an eligible practice by providing a taxable payment of $11,000 for every year, up to five years, that they are working in an understaffed area, says Honorary David Carter, Minister of Agriculture.
Payment for the first three years will be made as a lump sum at the end of three years, with an annual payment for the fourth and fifth years.
“This scheme is a win-win situation,” says Mr Carter. “The vets who opt in get a significant financial incentive, while eligible vet practices can have confidence they can retain graduates.
“Because the scheme encourages new vets to remain in the practice, rural areas will benefit from having vets settle and become part of the local community.”
Mr Carter says the scheme is targeted at rural vet practices working with farmed animals.
The first year of the scheme will be a transition year to allow the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and vet organisations to gather information and review eligibility for the scheme.
“This scheme will adapt to meet the changing needs of New Zealand’s rural communities. The areas of greatest need may shift over time and we need to reflect that.”
Mr Carter said any future changes to eligibility would not affect vets already in the scheme.
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