Search
Community & Education
Unleash your passion for animal welfare and be the catalyst for change!
Join the RSPCA in their mission to make a real difference in the lives of animals. With a range of engaging volunteer opportunities, you can be part of their community and education initiatives that shape hearts, minds, and behaviours. Your contribution will fuel the RSPCA's vital work, touching countless lives.
Step into the spotlight as you assist in community action days and deliver captivating presentations to schools and community groups. Share the vital message of responsible pet ownership and animal welfare, igniting a spark of empathy and compassion in young minds.
Experience the power of collective action as RSPCA rallies local communities through proactive People & Pets activations, creating thriving animal welfare networks. Embark on education visits to schools and communities, leaving an indelible mark on hearts and minds.
Together, let's transform communities into beacons of compassion and build a future where every animal receives the love and care they deserve.
Volunteer with the RSPCA and ignite change in the world, one paw at a time!
If you are interested in becoming a part of a team of passionate people making a proactive and positive difference in your community, please click one of the available roles below to join the team.
Together we change lives!
Volunteer Positions Available
School Holiday Program 16-18 Year Old Mentor
Your Community Needs You - Jump In!
Are you 16–18 and passionate about animals? Join us as a Mentor Volunteer for our School Holiday Programs at RSPCA Queensland! These programs give young people aged 10–17 an exciting, hands-on experience through activities like Canine Carers, RSPCA for a Day, Wildlife Crusaders, and Vet Nurse for a Day.
Volunteer with the RSPCA and ignite change in the world, one paw at a time!
Join us as a Mentor Volunteer!
At RSPCA Queensland, we believe in the power of education to inspire kindness and respect towards animals, people, and our environment. As a Mentor Volunteer, you'll play a crucial role in spreading this message of empathy and compassion.
What to expect
As a mentor, you’ll support our Education Officers by helping younger students during activities, encouraging animal welfare, and being a positive role model throughout the day. You’ll also have the chance to assist with handling animals safely and promoting a fun, safe, and educational environment for everyone.
What are the benefits?
- Gain experience working with animals
- Build leadership skills
- Make a real difference in the lives of young people
- Gain insight into RSPCA's vital role in our community as part of our education team.
- Creating a welfare conscious generation.
What skills and characteristics do I need?
- Passion for Animal Welfare: A genuine love for animals and a commitment to promoting their well-being.
- Effective Communication: Strong communication skills to engage with younger participants and staff.
- Teamwork and collaboration to assist Education Officers and work alongside other volunteers.
When can I volunteer?
- The role runs from 9:00am–2:00pm on selected school holiday dates with some pre and post work to assist around programs.
What training and support do we offer?
- Pre-program preparation to help assist our Education Officers.
- Hands-on experience with activities like handling animals and supporting younger students.
- Offering opportunities for growth and development within the organisation.
PLEASE NOTE: You must hold a valid blue card for this position, RSPCA Qld can help you to obtain this.
Join our growing team of passionate volunteers and help us create a more compassionate world through education. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of animals and our community.
School Holiday Program - Adult Volunteer
Join the Crew that Brings People Together!
We’re looking for an enthusiastic Education Volunteer to join our team and support the running of our School Holiday Programs at RSPCA Queensland! These programs give young people aged 10–17 an exciting, hands-on experience through activities such as Canine Carers, RSPCA for a Day, Wildlife Crusaders, and Vet Nurse for a Day.
Volunteer with the RSPCA and ignite change in the world, one paw at a time!
Join us as a Education Volunteer!
At RSPCA Queensland, we believe in the power of education to inspire kindness and respect towards animals, people, and our environment. As a Mentor Volunteer, you'll play a crucial role in spreading this message of empathy and compassion.
What to expect
As an Education Volunteer, you’ll assist our Education Officers with program delivery, engage with students, support activities, and help ensure the day runs smoothly. This role also includes taking responsibility for children during the program, confidently handling animals with care, and encouraging animal wellbeing to all students and people onsite.
What are the benefits?
- Gain experience working with animals
- Build leadership skills
- Make a real difference in the lives of young people
- Gain insight into RSPCA's vital role in our community as part of our education team.
- Creating a welfare conscious generation.
What skills and characteristics do I need?
- Passion for Animal Welfare: A genuine love for animals and a commitment to promoting their well-being.
- Effective Communication: Strong communication skills to engage with younger participants and staff.
- Teamwork and collaboration to work alongside other volunteers.
- Work comfortably with both children and adults
When can I volunteer?
- The main role runs from 9:00am–2:00pm on selected school holiday dates but will include pre and post work surrounding programs.
PLEASE NOTE: You must hold a valid blue card for this position, RSPCA Qld can help you to obtain this.
Join our growing team of passionate volunteers and help us create a more compassionate world through education. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of animals and our community.
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?
-
Make a real difference—help animals get their second chance
-
Short-term commitment with life-changing impact
-
All supplies and support provided by RSPCA
-
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!
-
Submit an application form so we can get to know you
-
Complete our short, online foster training
-
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:
-
Puppies and kittens too young for rehoming
-
Animals recovering from illness or injury
-
Animals needing behavioural support and socialisation
-
Pets seeking safety due to domestic violence situations
-
Animals displaced by natural disasters like floods or bushfires
-
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:
-
Foster carers must be 18+ and have access to reliable transport
-
Landlord/body corporate approval is required if you rent
-
Existing pets must be up to date on vaccinations
-
Flexibility with the type of animal you foster increases your chances of being matched
-
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!
 |
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.
Volunteer Positions Available
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 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.
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.
Due to high demand, our Volunteer roles are currently closed to new applications.
Please check back on this page regularly — we will reopen applications as soon as placements become available.
Please note we are unable to provide work experience or offer any student placements (exceptions being placements organised through university or tertiary programs).
Orientation dates are currently only being held on Mondays, due to staff constraints. We understand how this may affect your ability to begin volunteering and apologise that we can not open weekends up at this stage.
Animal Care & Shelter Support
Corporate Experience Day Volunteer | Wacol
RSPCA QLD Corporate Partnerships team are on the hunt for superstar volunteers to assist with the expanding Corporate Experience Program.
What to Expect
At RSPCA Queensland, we believe that humane education is the most powerful way to change people’s attitudes and behaviours towards animals. As a Corporate Experience Day Volunteer, you will work alongside our Partnerships Coordinator and assist participants with various tasks, such as creating enrichment for the animals and walking dogs.
Tasks:
- Assist in supervising corporate participants and facilitating different activities across the shelter.
- Liaise and communicate with the Corporate Experience Program Officer, as well as setting up and packing down the day.
- Collect animals from their pens and return them as required.
- Answer questions about animal welfare and the work done by the RSPCA, and actively promote RSPCA principles and ideas.
- Host hospital and/or campus tours if comfortable (not a necessity).
- Follow RSPCA philosophy of positive reinforcement with all animal interactions.
Skills and Characteristics Needed:
- Strong animal handling skills, preferably dog handling skills, level 2 if possible or willingness to obtain.
- Confidence in working with domestic animals and/or willingness to learn more about working with animals in a shelter situation.
- Willingness to learn about our partnerships program.
- Excellent communication skills (this is an essential requirement)
- Physical fitness (able to lift 10kg) and ability to stand for long periods.
- Ability to think on your feet and handle a variety of general enquiries and situations.
- A passion for animal welfare and education, with excellent public speaking and presentation skills.
If you are interested in this rewarding opportunity, please email partnerships@rspcaqld.org.au for further details.
When Can I Volunteer?
- We ask for a minimum commitment of one shift per week for at least three months.
- The weekly shifts are available between the hours of 8:15am - 4:30pm, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday.
- This role is located onsite at our Brisbane Animal Care Campus in Wacol.
How Can I Apply?
To apply, please complete the volunteer application form by clicking the 'fill in an application' button.
Please note, candidates may be asked to complete a short phone interview to discuss their experience and suitability for the role as part of the selection process.
Wildlife
Join us in making a wild difference!
Step into the heart of wildlife care at our RSPCA Qld Wildlife Hospital and discover an experience like no other. As a volunteer, you’ll play a vital role in supporting the daily operations that help injured and sick native animals get back to the wild where they belong.
From assisting with essential tasks to learning about the unique needs of our incredible wildlife, every shift offers something new. You’ll gain hands-on insight into animal care, work alongside passionate professionals, and see firsthand the impact your efforts make.
It’s not always easy—wildlife care can be challenging and fast-paced—but the reward is immense. Every animal you help is a life changed, and every moment spent here is a chance to grow your skills and make a real difference.
With flexible shifts and the opportunity to meet a variety of native species, this is your chance to turn compassion into action.
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.
Wildlife Opportunities
Wildlife Driver | Wacol
From Road to Recovery: Help Us Save Wildlife!
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; people who wish to experience hands-on work with native animals and want to learn about the care and health requirements for future work in the industry. This is a great opportunity for people who want to help the RSPCA rehabilitate animals and send them back to their natural habitat. You will be outside in winter and summer weather and sometimes driving in the challenging conditions Queensland can offer, but the reward is knowing you are making a difference to the quality of life of all the native animals in our care. Applicants must be over 25 years old.
What are the benefits?
🌏 Increased awareness of native wildlife and the challenges they face
🦉 Develop native animal handling and identification skills
🤝 Become part of a supportive and friendly community
What are the tasks?
The position involves transporting wildlife patients as required and includes:
🏥 Collecting and transporting animals from veterinary clinics back to the Wacol Wildlife Hospital, or delivering animals to vet clinics for collection by carers
🌿 Releasing wildlife back into appropriate environments
👥 Liaising with registered wildlife carers and delivering animals along with relevant paperwork and medications
🗣️ Educating members of the public about wildlife species during releases or when interacting at the Wildlife Hospital
🧹 Assisting with sweeping and mopping floors, removing rubbish, and cleaning animals’ food and water bowls between driving jobs
🍽️ Replacing animals’ food and water as required
🚐 Transferring animals between Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, Australia Zoo and the RSPCA Wildlife Hospital
📞 Communicating with RSPCA Wildlife Hospital staff regarding animal movements and requirements
🧺 Transporting bins of soiled linen, towels and bedding to the laundry and returning clean items to the hospital
🌀 Undertaking general laundry duties, including loading and unloading washing machines and dryers and folding clean items
What skills and characteristics do I need?
📚 Willingness to learn (wildlife knowledge or experience is an advantage)
🪪 A clean driver’s licence and ability to use GPS to navigate unfamiliar locations
🏋️ Physically fit, able to lift up to 10kg, and comfortable working in varied outdoor conditions
🔍 Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately follow instructions
🤝 Enjoy working as part of a team
🔄 Flexible, adaptable and able to respond to changing priorities
🗣️ Excellent communication skills
When can I volunteer?
We currently have the below vacancies:
- Mondays: 8am-12pm, 9am-1pm, 1pm-5pm
- Thursdays: 8am-12pm
- Saturdays: 9am-1pm, 1pm-5pm
- Sundays: 9am-1pm, 12pm-4pm
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 four hour shift per week 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.
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 Reception | Wacol
Help Us Welcome Every Wild Guest
What to expect
This rewarding role would suit applicants who are passionate about Australian wildlife and dedicated to improving their welfare, who are outgoing and enjoy meeting new people, and have great computer and administration skills. In this role you will provide vital help to all creatures great and small by being the ‘face’ of the RSPCA Wildlife Hospital, greeting people as they bring animals in, entering critical data onto the RSPCA systems, answering telephone calls from wildlife carers, local vet surgeries and other RSPCA departments, and other general administrative tasks as required.
Please note: In this role, you will be the first point of call for members of the public, staff and volunteers bringing in injured or deceased wildlife. As such you will need to possess a certain level of resilience when handling these situations.
What are the benefits?
🏥 Experience the day‑to‑day operations of a busy wildlife veterinary clinic
🦜 Enjoy up‑close exposure to a wide range of wildlife species, from common to endangered
📚 Learn more about Australian wildlife, including species identification and natural behaviours
🤝 Be part of a supportive team of enthusiastic, hardworking individuals who will help you grow and learn
What are the tasks?
📋 Record accurate details for incoming and outgoing animals
🐾 Assist staff with animal handling as required
🧹 Ensure reception waiting areas and consultation rooms are clean, tidy and welcoming at all times
📞 Liaise with wildlife carers regarding placement of injured or juvenile animals, birds and reptiles
☎️ Answer general telephone enquiries from wildlife carers
⌨️ Complete additional data entry tasks and administrative duties as required
🔄 Assist in other areas of the hospital when reception tasks are up to date
What skills and characteristics do I need?
🗣️ Excellent communication and customer service skills
😊 A confident, friendly and positive nature, making people feel welcome during difficult moments
🤍 Willingness to support people through delicate and sometimes challenging situations
✅ Reliable, with the ability to work independently, take initiative and multitask
💻 Computer literacy, including a sound working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel
🐾 Willingness to learn animal handling techniques and housing requirements for incoming wildlife
When can I volunteer?
We currently have the below shifts available only:
- Mondays: 8am-12:30pm, 4pm-8pm or 5pm-10pm
- Fridays: 4pm-8pm or 5pm-10pm
- Saturdays: 8am-12:30pm, 12:30pm-5pm, 4pm-8pm or 5pm-10pm
- Sundays: 8am-12:30pm, 12:30pm-5pm, 4pm-8pm or 5pm-10pm
Orientation and animal training will be required.
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 Ward Assistant | Wacol
Step Into the Heart of Wildlife Rescue
What to expect
There are a number of vacancies available in our busy Wildlife Hospital with various shifts across week days and weekends. This position would suit applicants that have an interest in our native wildlife and a commitment to learn about the daily care required for them; are dedicated to improving their welfare and would like to gain exposure to a native animal hospital environment. Applicants will be involved with cleaning and the daily care of native wildlife (eg birds, possums, lizards and turtles) that are currently in care. In line with wild animal rehabilitation practices, please note that handling of wildlife will be minimal.
These can be challenging roles as you may be faced with situations where animals are sick, uncomfortable or in pain. You might feel emotional about the animals you’re working with and may find this difficult, but ultimately the reward is that you’re making a huge, positive difference to their lives – and yours!
Please note: we are unable to offer placements for vet nursing students; please contact your course provider.
What are the benefits?
📚 Learn about native wildlife and domestic bird care and husbandry
🩺 Opportunity to gain new skills and insight into the veterinary care industry
🤝 Become part of a friendly and supportive community
What are the tasks?
🧹 Daily cleaning of animal enclosures, including removing used leaf matter and food, soiled newspaper and towels, and replacing them with fresh supplies
📦 Assisting with stock control and re‑stocking of supplies where appropriate
🧼 Sweeping and mopping floors, removing rubbish, washing food and water bowls, and replenishing food and water
🧪 Hygiene control (critical): ensuring appropriate sanitisation and hand‑washing after handling animals or enclosures, using personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and gowns, and preventing cross‑contamination in a high‑risk shelter environment
🏥 Assisting with keeping the hospital environment and reception area clean, tidy and presentable
🧺 Transporting bins of soiled towels to the laundry and returning clean towels to work areas
🌀 Undertaking general laundry duties, including loading and unloading washing machines and dryers and folding clean items
🐾 Occasional minimal animal handling
What skills and characteristics do I need?
🤍 Emotional resilience, as you will care for animals with injuries or illnesses that may be confronting
✅ Ability to work independently and manage tasks autonomously
🏋️ Physically fit, able to lift up to 10kg and stand for extended periods
🔍 Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately follow instructions
🤝 Enjoy working as part of a team
🗣️ Excellent communication skills
🔥 Hard‑working and committed to supporting the RSPCA
When can I volunteer?
- We currently have the following vacancies:
- Tuesday - 12pm-4pm
- Friday - 12pm-4pm
- Saturday - 12pm-4pm
- Sunday - 12pm-4pm
- Orientation and animal training will be provided.
If you could please specify in your application which shift you would ideally like to have, that would be much appreciated.
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!
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.
