Our history

Vet Support, formerly known as the Elizabeth Veterinary Benevolent Fund (EVBF), was established in 1954. It was modelled after the successful Victoria Fund by the British Veterinary Association. The EVBF's first benefactor, Allan Leslie, a pioneer in the Veterinary Club movement in New Zealand, contributed the proceeds from the sale of his veterinary instruments.  Originally, EVBF was established to provide substantial financial aid to veterinarians in need. In recent years, EVBF has shifted focus to offer wellbeing support, primarily through the provision of free counselling services.

In 2024, EVBF and NZVA wanted to create a more integrated approach to wellbeing supported by the three pillars: Prevent, Promote and Protect.  Vet Support was created to bring together all the resources being offered through counselling, mentoring and wellbeing.