Dr. Laura Hardefeldt
BVSc, MVSc, CertEM, FANZCVS
When it comes to tackling the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance in the veterinary world, one name consistently stands out, Dr. Laura Hardefeldt.
As an Associate Professor and Principal Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne’s Veterinary School, Dr. Laura Hardefeldt has carved a reputation as a pioneering force in antimicrobial stewardship (AMS), with groundbreaking research, practical policy influence, and international leadership.
Her career, however, didn’t begin in the lab, it started with boots on the ground. After graduating with her veterinary degree from Murdoch University in 2003, Dr. Hardefeldt spent several years in mixed animal practice before completing an intensive equine internship at the University of Sydney. Veterinarians seeking focused, practical learning can follow her example through equine vet CE for solo practitioners, gaining flexible professional development that fits around a busy practice.
She went on to refine her clinical skills further during a prestigious residency in Large Animal Internal Medicine at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, achieving board certification through the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM).
From Clinician to Research Leader
This deep clinical grounding laid the foundation for what would become a globally impactful research career. Upon returning to Australia, Dr. Laura Hardefeldt worked in both academia and private specialty practice. Along the way, she earned a Master of Public Health and later completed a fast-tracked PhD at the University of Melbourne and the National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship.
Remarkably, she completed her PhD in just two years, a testament to her drive and clarity of purpose.
Pioneering Antimicrobial Stewardship in Veterinary Practice
Dr. Laura Hardefeldt’s research has provided Australia’s first comprehensive understanding of population-level antimicrobial use in domestic animals. Her work has uncovered critical gaps in veterinary prescribing practices, identified the systemic barriers to change, and perhaps most importantly, provided practical, evidence-based solutions to improve stewardship.
One of her most influential achievements has been leading the development of the Australian Veterinary Prescribing Guidelines, now used in over 200 practices nationwide. These guidelines are more than policy, they are a toolkit for change, equipping veterinarians with accessible, science-backed strategies for responsible antimicrobial use.
In addition, she helped create an online resource hub for veterinarians, turning dense research into real-world, everyday impact.
Driving Innovation Through Collaboration
Through strategic partnerships with Greencross Vets and PetSure Australia, Dr. Laura Hardefeldt initiated and led the Greencross Antimicrobial Stewardship Trial, the largest veterinary AMS study ever conducted in Australia.
She also works closely with government agencies like Agriculture Victoria and the Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment, while maintaining active collaborations with the Australian Veterinary Association and VetCompass Australia. These alliances have positioned her as a respected and central figure in shaping Australia’s veterinary AMS policies and practices.
International Recognition and One Health Impact
Internationally, Dr. Laura Hardefeldt is recognised as a thought leader in One Health, a collaborative, multisectoral approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health. She regularly speaks at major conferences around the world and holds key committee roles dedicated to tackling antimicrobial resistance.
Her contributions were formally recognised with the ARC Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA), a prestigious national research fellowship that highlights her exceptional promise and influence in the field.
A Bridge Between Research and Practice
What makes Dr. Laura Hardefeldt truly unique is her ability to bridge the gap between high-level science and frontline practice. She speaks both the language of the researcher and the clinician, translating data into decisions that safeguard both animal and human health.
Her work exemplifies the best of veterinary science; rigorous, relevant, and deeply committed to the welfare of animals and the sustainability of healthcare systems.
Why Dr. Laura Hardefeldt Matters
For veterinarians, scientists, policymakers, and public health professionals looking for leadership in antimicrobial stewardship, Dr. Laura Hardefeldt is the gold standard. Her research continues to shape practice, influence policy, and inspire the next generation of veterinary professionals to take up the challenge of responsible antibiotic use.
In a world increasingly threatened by antimicrobial resistance, Dr. Laura Hardefeldt is not only a national asset, she is a global leader redefining what’s possible in veterinary science.
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