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Foster Care
Become a Foster Carer with RSPCA Queensland
Foster a Life. Change a Life.
Foster carers play a vital role in the lives of vulnerable animals. By providing a temporary home, you’re giving animals the time, care, and space they need to recover, grow, or simply escape the stress of the shelter environment—until they’re ready for their forever families.
Whether it's a kitten too young for adoption, a dog recovering from surgery, or a pet escaping a crisis, you can be the difference that saves a life.
Why Foster?
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Make a real difference—help animals get their second chance
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Short-term commitment with life-changing impact
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All supplies and support provided by RSPCA
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Perfect for animal lovers who can’t adopt long-term
How to Become a Foster Carer
Getting started is easy—and you can complete the process from home!
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Submit an application form so we can get to know you
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Complete our short, online foster training
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Send in photos of your property for a virtual safety check
Once approved, you’ll receive weekly foster lists and can let us know when you're available. We’ll then match you with animals who need your help.
Who Needs Foster Care?
Animals come into our care for many reasons. You may be asked to foster:
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Puppies and kittens too young for rehoming
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Animals recovering from illness or injury
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Animals needing behavioural support and socialisation
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Pets seeking safety due to domestic violence situations
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Animals displaced by natural disasters like floods or bushfires
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Home Ever After pets whose owners are in hospital or have passed away
📍 Foster needs vary by location.
Please check the foster regions below for current priority animals near you.
Things to Know Before You Apply
To ensure the safety and wellbeing of our animals, please keep in mind:
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Foster carers must be 18+ and have access to reliable transport
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Landlord/body corporate approval is required if you rent
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Existing pets must be up to date on vaccinations
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Flexibility with the type of animal you foster increases your chances of being matched
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Foster placements typically range from 2 weeks to 6 months, depending on the animal’s needs
Ready to Open Your Heart and Home?
Explore your local foster region below to begin your application and join a compassionate community of carers helping animals in need—one foster at a time.
Fostering Regions Available
Op Shops & Retail
Ignite Change, Shop with Purpose, and Be a Hero!
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Looking for a fulfilling way to make a difference in the lives of animals? Our Op Shops and World For Pets stores are calling for passionate individuals like you to join our cause! By shopping, volunteering, or donating, you can become a hero for the animals we care for and support their well-being.
Volunteer Opportunities: Are you an animal enthusiast with a flair for retail, customer service, or simply want to be part of a fantastic team?
Join our Op Shop family as an Op Shop Assistant or Op Shop Driver Assistant. Make a tangible impact while gaining valuable experience and creating unforgettable moments. All of our current volunteer vacancies are linked below. Please have a look through and apply today!
Shop with Purpose: Discover amazing bargains and unique treasures while helping us raise crucial funds for over 50,000 animals we care for each year. Our Op Shops offer a wide range of clothing, homewares, accessories, and furniture. Your purchases directly support our mission of compassion.
Join the RSPCA movement today and be a catalyst for change! Click below to explore our Op Shop locations, discover volunteer opportunities, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of animals. Together, let's create a brighter future filled with love, compassion, and wagging tails.
Rescue
Answer the Call of Compassion: Unleash Your Heroic Spirit with RSPCA QLD's Inspectorate & Rescue Team!
Currently recruiting volunteers for Rescue Driving!
Embark on a heroic journey that will touch your soul!
Join our Inspectorate & Rescue team and become a lifeline for animals in need. In 2025 alone, a staggering 23,144 creatures received our life-saving assistance through our dedicated Rescue Units. Among them, an astonishing 77% were the magnificent treasures of Australian wildlife - our native birds, possums, koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies. As a Rescue Unit Driver or Rescue Unit Assistant volunteer, you'll be at the forefront of these daring missions, making a tangible impact on the lives of animals in distress.
If being out on the road and rescuing animals is appealing to you, the Rescue Unit Driver or Rescue Unit Assistant volunteer roles might suit you!
These roles are also perfectly suited to people who want to volunteer together, such as teaming up with a friend or partner.
At present, we are unable to accommodate volunteers who require the support of a support worker due to current program capacity.
Orientations are now being held online at this location.
Once you have been accepted into our program, you will be required to complete a series of online orientation modules. After finishing these modules, you will need to book an onsite Meet & Tour.
The Meet & Tour is approximately 1 hour and is currently held only on the following days:
- Mondays – 9am – 10am (Fortnightly)
Due to current staff shortages, we’re unfortunately unable to provide any other days at this time. Any new days we can provide, we will update this notice.
Volunteer Positions Available
Rescue Unit Driver and Assistant | Wacol/Brisbane
Are you passionate about helping animals and want to make a real difference? Our Rescue Volunteering Roles offer a unique opportunity to support RSPCA’s vital rescue operations across Queensland. From supporting the rescue team with coordinating rescue jobs to assisting with logistics, this role is perfect for those who thrive on variety and have skills to share.
Please note this role will be based at our Wacol Animal Care Campus.
What to expect
RSPCA Queensland is seeking passionate volunteers to join our Rescue Unit as Drivers (going out independently) or Assistants (going out with a staff member). You’ll play a vital role in responding to animal rescue calls across Brisbane and beyond.
Based at our Brisbane Animal Care Campus, you’ll hit the road in an RSPCA vehicle (with iPhone and iPad provided) to assist animals in need. This is not your typical shelter role. We need independent, adaptable, reliable people who can stay calm under pressure, handle challenging situations, and love a drive.
We welcome drivers and assistants (both require a valid QLD P2 license in the 2nd year or higher). Friends or couples can volunteer together - one as a driver, the other as an assistant after training.
Help us make a real difference. Apply today and be part of the front-line saving lives!
Please note if you are applying for a Driver role, our fleet consists of larger vans, as shown in the photo above. Like all larger vehicles, these vans have blind spots and require more care to maneuver than a standard car. Applicants should therefore be comfortable and confident driving a vehicle of this size.
What are the benefits?
🐾 Opportunity to improve animal handling skills and gain a deeper understanding of how the RSPCA operates
🎓 Learn directly from experienced RSPCA Rescue Unit Officers
🦘 Increase awareness of native wildlife and the challenges they face
❤️ Make a meaningful difference by helping keep animals safe and comfortable
🤝 Become part of a friendly, supportive team and community
What are the tasks?
The position involves transporting injured or unwell animals as required and includes:
🗺️ Significant driving throughout the greater Brisbane area using an RSPCA vehicle
🏥 Collecting and transporting animals from veterinary clinics back to the Wacol Wildlife Hospital, or delivering animals to vet clinics for collection
👋 Interacting with members of the public while assisting animals or gathering additional information
What skills and characteristics do I need?
🐾 Confidence working with animals, or a willingness to learn to handle a variety of species
📱 Basic tech skills (emails, photos via iPhone/iPad)
✅ Reliable, committed, and physically fit (able to lift 10kg)
🔍 Strong attention to detail for paperwork and ability to accurately listen to and follow instructions
🤝 Enjoy working as part of a team
🔄 Flexible and adaptable to changing situations
🗣️ Excellent communication skills
- This role can sometimes be emotionally challenging. You may encounter animals in distressing or confronting conditions. Our mission is to help these animals in need and provide them with the care and support they deserve. Please keep this in mind when applying, as resilience and empathy are essential for this position.
- To help potential volunteers to fully understand the role requirements, we have created the Essential Capabilities of an RSPCA QLD Rescue Volunteer.
- It is a requirement that before handling animals at the RSPCA you have an up-to-date tetanus vaccination.
- Flexibility is important: Due to the nature of this role, shift lengths may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions
- A minimum commitment of one shift per fortnight for at least 3 months is required
- Full orientation and animal handling training will be provided
When can I volunteer?
Driver Assistants: Monday – Sunday (7am-3.05pm, 10am-6.05pm, 1pm-9.05pm)
Drivers: Monday – Sunday (7am-2.30pm, 3pm-9pm)
Shorter driver shifts: 8-12pm, 12pm-4pm, 4pm-8pm
Can be flexible to driver times and can be discussed at the time of applying
📝 Please indicate your available days and preferred shift times when applying
If you have any questions about this role, please contact the Volunteer Ambulance Coordinator via email on: animalambulance@rspcaqld.org.au or fill in the application above.
Wacol Animal Care Campus
Volunteer at our Wacol Shelter and Experience the Joy of Making a Pawsitive Difference!
At RSPCA Qld, we offer a range of volunteer roles that put you right at the heart of animal care. From hands-on work with dogs, cats, and farmyard friends to helping behind the scenes, there’s something for everyone.
These roles are rewarding—but they’re not all cuddles! Keeping animals happy and healthy means plenty of cleaning and physical work. Rain or shine, weekday or public holiday, we need dedicated volunteers every single day.
If you're keen to volunteer in an animal care role, please have a look at our current vacancies below and submit an application.
Please note we are unable to provide work experience or offer any student placements (exceptions being placements organised through university or tertiary programs).
Orientations are now being held online at this location.
Once you have been accepted into our program, you will be required to complete a series of online orientation modules. After finishing these modules, you will need to book an onsite Meet & Tour.
The Meet & Tour is approximately 1 hour and is currently held only on the following days:
- Mondays – 9am – 10am (Fortnightly)
Due to current staff shortages, we’re unfortunately unable to provide any other days at this time. Any new days we can provide, we will update this notice.
ANIMAL CARE ASSISTANT ROLE IS TEMPORARILY CLOSED
Due to a recent influx of interest in thise role, our Volunteer Animal Care Assistant role is currently closed as of 29/05/26. This role will reopen by the end of June 2026. Please keep an eye on this page for any updates in the meantime. Applications submitted for the Animal Care Assistant position through another role will not be accepted at this time.
Animal Care & Shelter Support
Animal Experience Driver | Wacol
Take the Driver's Seat in Animal Care!
Rev up your passion for animals and make a real impact on their care and welfare with this rewarding volunteer role. We're on the lookout for Volunteer Drivers who can hop behind the wheel and take our furry friends on an unforgettable journey. Strap in, because it's time to hit the road!
As a Volunteer Driver, your mission is to transport animals from the RSPCA Campus to other shelters and partnered locations in our trusty RSPCA Animal Transfer vehicle. Safety is your top priority as you chauffeur these precious passengers, representing the RSPCA in style with our branded vehicle. You'll also collaborate with various agencies to find our animals loving homes, making connections along the way.
Here's what's in it for you:
🚗 Gain valuable insights into how the RSPCA operates – knowledge is horsepower!
🤝 Work alongside a friendly team and meet fellow animal enthusiasts – you're in good company!
🐾 Sharpen your animal handling skills – become a pro at caring for our beloved creatures!
🏠 Make a difference and experience the joy of helping animals find their forever homes – your heart will soar!
Your road trip duties will include:
📦 Crate animals properly and load them safely for transportation – we're all about comfort and security!
📞 Coordinate with staff at affiliated organisations and businesses for animal drop-offs and pick-ups – teamwork makes the dream work!
🚦 Ensure the well-being of the animals in your care during the journey – safety first, always!
To succeed on this mission, you'll need:
🚙 A courteous and considerate driving style – road manners are the key to a smooth ride!
🗣️ Good communication skills – you'll be the friendly voice representing the RSPCA!
📜 A clean, valid driver's license
🚦 Strong driving skills and the ability to navigate traffic
💪 Physical fitness and the ability to lift up to 10kg
🐾 Good animal handling skills
When can you hit the road?
🗓️ Shifts are from 9am to 3pm, but be prepared for a bit of flexibility due to unpredictable traffic conditions – it's all part of the adventure! At the moment we are looking for volunteers for Wednesdays and Fridays!
⏰ We request a weekly commitment – Full orientation and training will be provided.
Important Reminders:
Before embarking on your animal-handling adventure, please ensure you have an up-to-date Tetanus vaccination. Safety is our top priority for both you and our furry friends!
To rev up your volunteer journey or for more information, please contact our Volunteering team at volunteering@rspcaqld.org.au.
Don't wait! Start your engines and apply now below – let's drive change for animals in need!
Laundry and Donation Sorting Assistant | Wacol
Spin, Sort, and Support!
Please note, due to high demand for Animal Care, volunteers applying for this role & wishing to transfer to Animal Care are required to complete a minimum three-month commitment in Laundry & Donations before a transfer will be considered.
What to expect
If you are passionate about animals and animal welfare and looking for a unique and worthwhile way to contribute, this rewarding volunteer position could be for you.
As a Volunteer Laundry and Donations Assistant, you are responsible for ensuring all areas of the shelter have clean linen, bedding, towels and anything else required to provide a clean and comfortable environment for our animals. Whether it is an animal that has been subjected to abuse and cruelty, a stray or lost or recently surrendered animal, this role is truly pivotal to the effective operation of the shelter. Whilst this role is not the most exciting in comparison to some of the other roles available, it is essential. In addition, part of this role also includes bringing appropriate items that have been donated from the donations area down to the laundry to be sorted and put neatly away so the stock is constantly replenished as damaged items are discarded.
What are the benefits?
🤝 Working in a friendly team and meeting new people
🏭 Experience working in an industrial laundry
❤️ The opportunity to make a difference and know you are keeping our animals comfortable
What are the tasks?
🗑️ Discarding heavily soiled, damaged or ripped items
👕 Hanging washed items on the lines to dry
🧺 Folding and putting away clean laundry ready for use
🛏️ Washing and drying ‘special’ items such as dog beds, toys, leads and collars
📦 Liaising with Op Shop sorting staff and transporting appropriate donated animal care items from the donations area to the laundry
🧸 Sorting and putting away donated items
What skills & characteristics do I need?
🔥 Committed hard worker
🏋️ Physically fit and able to lift 10kg
🗣️ Good communication skills
When can I volunteer?
🕢 7:00am – 12:00pm or 12:00pm – 4:30pm
Important Reminders:
It is a requirement that before handling animals at the RSPCA you have an up to date Tetanus vaccination.
If you are ready to join the RSPCA Qld team, please click "Fill in an application" above. For further information, please contact us at volunteering@rspcaqld.org.au
Gardener & Maintenance | Wacol
Shape Spaces for Paws & People!
What to expect
🛠️ A varied role with tasks ranging from general maintenance around the centre to grounds work such as mowing, whipper snipping and watering to keep the grounds looking their best
What are the benefits?
What skills and characteristics do I need?
✅ Reliable, punctual, organised and professional
🤝 Able to work both independently and as part of a team
🏋️ Physically fit with the ability to lift up to 10kg when required
When can I volunteer?
⏳ A commitment of one shift per week is requested
Important Reminders:
It is a requirement that before handling animals at the RSPCA you have an up-to-date Tetanus vaccination.
If you are ready to join the RSPCA Qld team, please click "Fill in an application" above. For further information, please contact us at volunteering@rspcaqld.org.au
Wildlife Responders
Love Wildlife? Here's Your Chance to Make a Real Impact!
As a Wildlife Responder, you’ll be part of a passionate network helping injured, sick, or orphaned native animals get the care they need.
This flexible volunteer role lets you assist in your local area anytime, anywhere by transporting animals to safety and supporting simple rescues. It’s a hands-on way to protect Queensland’s wildlife and connect with your community while learning valuable skills.
Ready to help us protect and care for Queensland’s wildlife? Apply today and be part of something truly wild!
At present, we are unable to accommodate volunteers who require the support of a support worker due to current program capacity.
Volunteer Positions Available
Wildlife Responder
Answer the Call of the Wild!
Passionate about Australia’s native wildlife? Join our Wildlife Rescue network and make a real difference. This flexible role lets you help anywhere, anytime across Queensland.
What are the benefits?
💚 Ability to help your local wildlife
🌱 Connection with your local wildlife and community
🤝 Be part of a passionate rescue network
What are the tasks?
🦘 Wildlife Reunites: Help reunite juvenile animals with their parents
🌿 Community Engagement: Represent RSPCA QLD and provide advice & education to the public when appropriate
What skills and characteristics do I need?
🐾 Confidence around wildlife and/or willingness to learn
🗣️ Excellent communication and calm under pressure
🛡️ Commitment to safety, RSPCA guidelines, and what we stand for
💉 Up‑to‑date tetanus vaccination
When can I volunteer?
🌱 A great option to fit volunteering around your lifestyle while making a meaningful impact in your community
Important Information:
This role can sometimes be emotionally challenging. You may encounter animals in distressing or confronting conditions. Our mission is to help these animals in need and provide them with the care and support they deserve. Please keep this in mind when applying, as resilience and empathy are essential for this position.
Ready to make a difference?
For more information or to apply, email 1300animal@rspcaqld.org.au or complete the application form above.
