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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.
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 are currently seeking volunteers who would like to be part of our Rescue Unit as a Volunteer Rescue Unit Driver or Recue Unit Assistant. Rescue Unit Drivers form an integral part of our front line rescue team. RSPCA Qld have several Rescue Units on the road in such areas as Brisbane, Logan, Gold Coast, Townsville, Toowoomba and Rockhampton.
Working from our Brisbane Animal Care Campus (in a vehicle that we provide with iPhone and iPad) you would be responsible for actioning jobs that come in via the Call Centre that are dispatched via the Rescue Unit. Your duties in these situations would vary depending on your level of skill and experience. This is not your typical role volunteering at a shelter environment, as we need people who are independent and can be flexible to accommodate needs on a daily basis. An ability to deal constructively with stressful situations, and to remain calm in confronting situations, is of high importance.
We recruit both Assistants to the Rescue Officers and Drivers (both roles require a valid QLD P2 drivers license and above).
Couples/friends are eligible to work together in this role with one being a Driver and the other an Assistant once training is completed.
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?
🚗 A good driving record
🐾 Confidence working with animals, or a willingness to learn to handle a variety of species
📱 Proficiency using email and sending/receiving photos via iPhone or iPad devices
✅ Committed, reliable and dependable
🏋️ Physically fit, able to lift up to 10kg and comfortable working in a variety of outdoor environments
🔍 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
It is also important to mention that you will witness animals in distress that may sometimes be injured. The capacity to constructively deal with this both at the time and after the event is crucial. To help potential volunteers to fully understand the role requirements, we have created the Essential Capabilities of an RSPCA QLD Rescue Volunteer.
Please read this before you apply to ensure you understand what we look for when reviewing applications. If an applicant is not able to meet these essential requirements, unfortunately, we are unable to progress their application any further.
When can I volunteer?
📅 Shifts available: Monday – Sunday
🌞 Day shifts: 7:00am – 3:30pm
🌙 Night shifts: 2:00pm – 10:30pm
📝 Please indicate your available days and preferred shift times when applying
⏱️ 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
Important Reminders:
It is a requirement that before handling animals at the RSPCA you have an up to date Tetanus vaccination.
Due to the time involved in training new Volunteers to become Rescue Unit Drivers, we are looking for those who will be able to maintain their commitment ongoing and are reliable. All of our vehicles are automatic and we recruit volunteers who hold a Queensland Drivers Licence.
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.
Rescue Unit Driver | Toowoomba
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.
What to expect
RSPCA Queensland are currently seeking volunteers who would like to be part of our Rescue Unit as a Volunteer Rescue Unit Driver. Rescue Unit Drivers form an integral part of our front line rescue team. RSPCA Qld have several Rescue Units on the road in such areas as Brisbane, Logan, Gold Coast, Townsville, Toowoomba and Rockhampton.
RSPCA Qld provides a Volunteer Rescue Unit service in Toowoomba dedicated to rescue any sick, injured or orphaned animals in the Toowoomba Council area (in a vehicle that we provide with iPhone and iPad). You would be responsible for actioning jobs that come in via the Call Centre that are dispatched via the Rescue Unit. This shift works slightly different from our Wacol positions as the car stays in the Toowoomba area and is transferred between volunteers personal homes when it is your shift. It is a requirement that you live in the Toowoomba council area for this role. If you don’t, please consider our other roles.
Your duties in these situations would vary depending on your level of skill and experience. This is not your typical role volunteering at a shelter environment, as we need people who are independent and can be flexible to accommodate needs on a daily basis. An ability to deal constructively with stressful situations, and to remain calm in confronting situations, is of high importance.
We recruit only Drivers for the Toowoomba rescue unit(the role requires a valid QLD P2 drivers license and above).
Couples/friends are eligible to work together in this role with one being a Driver and the other an Assistant once training is completed.
We ask that all new Toowoomba Drivers attend the Wacol Campus (Brisbane) to do 2 x training shifts with our Rescue Officers to gain an insight into the Department and on the road training with a Rescue Officer, and 1 shift in Toowoomba, prior to commencing permanent shifts.
What are the benefits?
🐾 Opportunity to improve animal handling skills and gain insight into 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 Toowoomba 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?
🚗 A good driving record
🐾 Confidence handling a variety of animals, or a willingness to learn
📱 Proficient with email and sending/receiving photos via iPhone or iPad devices
✅ Committed, reliable and dependable
🏋️ Physically fit, able to lift up to 10kg and comfortable working in a range of outdoor environments
🔍 Strong attention to detail for paperwork and ability to accurately listen and follow instructions
🤝 Enjoy working as part of a team
🔄 Flexible and adaptable to changing situations
🗣️ Excellent communication skills
It is also important to mention that you will witness animals in distress that may sometimes be injured. The capacity to constructively deal with this both at the time and after the event is crucial. To help potential volunteers to fully understand the role requirements, we have created the Essential Capabilities of an RSPCA QLD Rescue Volunteer.
Please read this before you apply to ensure you understand what we look for when reviewing applications. If an applicant is not able to meet these essential requirements, unfortunately, we are unable to progress their application any further.
When can I volunteer?
- Shifts available: Monday - Sunday Day (7am-5pm) or Night (5pm-10pm) Please indicate your available days when applying.
- Please be aware that due to the nature of this role we ask you to be flexible to an extent with your shift time – it can be difficult to judge the length of a particular trip due to changeable traffic or weather conditions
- We request a minimum commitment of 1 x shift per fortnight for a minimum of 3 months. Orientation and animal training will be provided.
Important Reminders:
It is a requirement that before handling animals at the RSPCA you have an up to date Tetanus vaccination.
Due to the time involved in training new Volunteers to become Rescue Unit Drivers, we are looking for those who will be able to maintain their commitment ongoing and are reliable. All of our vehicles are automatic and we recruit volunteers who hold a Queensland Drivers Licence.
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.
Rescue Support Volunteer Role | Wacol
Are you passionate about helping animals and want to make a real difference? Our Rescue Support Volunteer Role offers 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.
Key Responsibilities
🗂️ Rescue Administration:
Managing rescue records, responding to enquiries, updating job details and compiling statistics
🚗 Logistics Support:
Coordinating vehicle servicing and repairs, maintaining rescue equipment, and assisting with inspections and inventory
🚨 Rescue Drivers & Assistants (Optional):
Providing transport support during emergencies and assisting with rescue operations when required
📞 Shift Coordination:
Following up on rescue jobs, sourcing external rescuers when needed, and assisting with job updates
📣 Project Support:
Creating training materials, contributing to awareness campaigns, researching service improvements, and updating citizen science databases
Why Volunteer With Us?
🧠 Build Valuable Skills:
Develop experience in administration, logistics, teamwork and animal rescue
🤝 Expand Your Network:
Connect with fellow animal lovers and industry professionals
🚀 Unlock Opportunities:
Gain experience that may lead to specialised roles or a career in animal welfare
🕒 Flexible Commitment:
Roles tailored to suit your availability, skills and interests
💬 Collaborative Environment:
Work closely with a passionate team of staff and volunteers
🎓 Learn & Grow:
Receive training in wildlife handling, RSPCA protocols and rescue operations
When Can You Volunteer?
📅 Shifts available seven days a week
🌞 Morning shift: 8:00am – 12:00pm
🌇 Afternoon shift: 2:00pm – 6:00pm
Whether you’re an animal lover looking for a rewarding way to give back or someone keen to support rescue efforts, this role offers something for everyone. Together, we can change lives – for animals and the people who care about them.
Important Reminders:
It is a requirement that before handling animals at the RSPCA you have an up to date Tetanus vaccination.
Due to the time involved in training new Volunteers to become Rescue Unit Drivers, we are looking for those who will be able to maintain their commitment ongoing and are reliable. All of our vehicles are automatic and we recruit volunteers who hold a Queensland Drivers Licence.
Ready to Join Us?
Apply today! 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.
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!
What to expect
This rewarding volunteer role would suit applicants who are passionate about Australia’s native wildlife and are committed to improving their welfare. This is a great opportunity for people who want to help their local Wildlife. This program is available across Queensland and is flexible, allowing participants to help anywhere, anytime.
What are the benefits?
🦉 Develop native animal handling and identification skills
🏡 Get to know your local wildlife and connect with your community
🤝 Become part of the RSPCA Queensland Wildlife Rescue Network
What are the tasks?
The position involves very basic rescuing and transporting injured, sick, or orphaned wildlife as required and includes:
🚗 Rescue & Transport: Responding to wildlife rescue and transport requests in your local area and delivering animals to nearby veterinary clinics or local wildlife carers
🐣 Wildlife Reunites: Attempting to reunite juvenile birds and other animals with their parents where appropriate
⚠️ Important safety note:
🐾 You will only work with common, non‑dangerous species, such as small–medium birds, lizards, turtles and possums
🚫 This role does not involve high‑risk species (kangaroos, koalas, bats, goannas, birds of prey or snakes)
🚧 No high‑risk rescue situations (e.g. ladders, water bodies, heights or confined spaces)
👋 Community Engagement: Engage positively with members of the public when responding to rescue or transport requests, represent RSPCA QLD professionally, and provide advice or education where appropriate
What skills and characteristics do I need?
🔞 Be over 18 years of age and hold a valid Queensland driver’s licence
🚙 Access to a suitable, roadworthy and insured vehicle (your own vehicle and basic equipment will be used)
📚 Willingness to learn about wildlife species and rescue techniques
⚠️ Commitment to following RSPCA Queensland WH&S guidelines and code of conduct
🔄 Ability to be flexible and adaptable while always working safely and not placing yourself or others at risk
🗣️ Excellent communication skills with the ability to remain calm and objective
❤️ A genuine interest in animal welfare and the objectives of RSPCA Queensland
When can I volunteer?
🌱 A great option to fit volunteering around your lifestyle while making a meaningful impact in your community
Important Information:
- As an RSPCA Volunteer you can only attend to animals that have been tasked to you by RSPCA Staff and once you accept a job you will be required to regularly check in with RSPCA staff when out doing a job for your safety and to be covered by our insurances.
- It is a requirement that before handling animals at the RSPCA you have an up-to-date Tetanus vaccination, and this will be your responsibility to obtain and keep up to date.
- If you do wildlife rescues already, please email us on the below email and we can add you to our rescue list so we can refer rescues to you or your organisation.
For further information, please contact our Wildlife Responder Coordinator via email on 1300animal@rspcaqld.org.au or fill in an application above.
