Volunteering with the RSPCA QLD

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?

• Assisting animals in need on the front line
• The opportunity to improve animal handling skills and gain knowledge of the how the RSPCA operates
• The opportunity to learn from RSPCA Rescue Unit Officers
• Increased awareness of our native wildlife and the issues they face
• The opportunity to make a difference and know you are keeping our animals comfortable
• Becoming part of a friendly team and community

What are the tasks?

The position involves transporting injured or unwell animals as required and includes:

• Locating, handling and rescuing injured or unwell animals
• Significant driving around the Toowoomba area using an RSPCA vehicle
• Collecting and transporting animals to vet clinics
• Liaising with veterinarians at clinics regarding the animals and delivering animals along with the relevant paperwork and medication

What skills and characteristics do I need?

• Have a valid and clean driver's license and the ability to use a GPS to navigate
• Good driving record
• Confidence or willingness to learn in handling a variety of animals
• Proficient in emails and sending and receiving photos via iPhone or iPad devices
• Committed and reliable
• Be physically fit (able to lift 10kg) and comfortable in a wide variety of outdoor situations
• Attention to detail for paperwork admissions, and able to accurately listen and follow instructions
• Enjoy working in a team environment
• Able to be flexible and adaptable
• 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.

Join the Fun and Make a Pawsitive Difference!

Looking for a rewarding way to spend your time? Love animals and want to make a meaningful impact on their lives? Look no further! We have an exciting volunteer opportunity that's perfect for animal enthusiasts like you. Get ready for an amazing experience that will leave you with a wagging tail!

What to Expect:

Get ready for an adventure that combines your passion for animals with hands-on experience and learning. Although it can get a little messy and smelly at times, the joy you'll feel is immeasurable. From cuddling cute kittens to playing fetch with playful pups, you'll be immersed in a world of furry friends. Whether it's rain or shine, summer or winter, you'll be out there making tails wag and hearts happy.

What are the Benefits?

• Plenty of quality time with lots of animals.
• An amazing opportunity to learn about the care and health requirements of our furry companions.
• Unleash your inner child and enjoy playtime and interactions with the animals in our care.
• Develop valuable skills and gain insights into the animal care industry.
• Become part of our warm and friendly community, where every wag and purr counts.
  
  

As a volunteer, you'll be an essential part of our team, with hands-on responsibilities that include:

• Giving the animals' pens a fresh start each day by cleaning up, replacing bedding, and ensuring everything is spick and span.
• Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment, because happy animals mean happy volunteers!
• Helping to keep our Animal Care Campus in tip-top shape, making it a welcoming haven for our furry residents.
• Taking our four-legged friends for a stroll around the campus, providing them with much-needed enrichment and exercise.
• Embrace your playful side by spending time with all our animals and facilitating social interactions with other animals, toys, and fellow humans.
• Handling laundry duties, ensuring that our animal friends have clean and cozy bedding.

Skills and Characteristics We're Looking For:

• Confidence in working with domestic animals or a willingness to learn more about animal care in a shelter setting.
• An ability to handle increased noise levels like a pro.
• Independence is key! We need volunteers who can work autonomously and take initiative.
• Physical fitness is a must! You should be able to lift up to 10kg and stand for extended periods.
• Attention to detail is crucial, as you'll be following instructions to ensure the well-being of our furry friends.
• Teamwork makes the dream work! Enjoy working collaboratively in a supportive environment.
• Excellent communication skills will help you connect with both animals and fellow volunteers.
• Show your dedication and hard work, as you'll be joining our passionate RSPCA team.

To help potential volunteers to fully understand the role requirements, we have created the Essential Capabilities of an Animal Care Volunteer  document. Please read this before you apply to ensure you understand what we look for when reviewing applications.

When Can You Join the Fun?

We have shifts either morning shifts, or afternoon shifts available Monday - Sunday with either our purr-fect Cats or our paw-some Dogs.
Don't worry if you're new to this—our team will provide you with orientation and training on animal interaction, training, and husbandry.

Important Reminders:

Before handling animals at the RSPCA, please ensure you have an up-to-date Tetanus vaccination. Safety first

Need More Info?

Urgent help needed in our laundry! Make a Difference as a Volunteer Laundry and Donation Sorting Assistant!

If you have a passion for animals and their welfare, and you're searching for a unique and meaningful way to contribute, this rewarding volunteer position is perfect for you. Join us as a Volunteer Laundry and Donation Sorting Assistant and play a crucial role in ensuring our shelter provides a clean and comfortable environment for our animals. Your dedication will make a profound impact on their well-being, whether they've experienced abuse, are lost or stray, or have recently been surrendered. While this role may not be the most glamorous, it is essential for the effective operation of the shelter. Additionally, part of your responsibilities will include sorting and organizing donated items to maintain a constant supply for our furry friends.

What to Expect:

• Gain valuable knowledge about the inner workings of the RSPCA and how we operate to protect and care for animals.
• Work in a friendly team environment, where you'll have the opportunity to meet new people who share your passion.
• Acquire hands-on experience working in an industrial laundry setting.
• Find fulfillment in knowing that your efforts directly contribute to the comfort and well-being of our animals.

Tasks at a Glance:

• Sort and load all laundry items into industrial washing machines.
• Discard heavily soiled, damaged, or torn items to maintain high standards of cleanliness.
• Hang washed items on lines to dry.
• Fold and neatly put away clean laundry for future use.
• Wash and dry "special" items such as dog beds, toys, leads, and collars.
• Coordinate with Op Shop sorting staff and transport appropriate donated animal care items from the donations area to the laundry.
• Sort and organize donated items for easy accessibility.

Skills and Characteristics We're Looking For:

• Strong teamwork skills to collaborate effectively with the rest of the team.
• Demonstrated commitment and a diligent work ethic.
• Physical fitness and ability to lift up to 10kg as needed.
• Good communication skills to ensure smooth coordination with fellow volunteers and staff.

When Can You Volunteer?

This position is available every day of the week, from Monday to Sunday, with flexible start and finish times. We value your availability and commitment to support our cause.

Join our team and make a positive impact on the lives of animals in need. Your dedication will not only benefit our furry friends but also bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose to your own life. Apply today and be a part of something meaningful!

Hit the Road and Be a Hero for Animals!

If you have a passion for animal welfare and a love for the open road, we have an exciting volunteer opportunity just for you! Join our team at RSPCA Qld as a driver and embark on a journey of compassion and impact. Get ready to transport adorable furry friends, both domestic and wild, and lend a helping hand in collecting donations. It's time to put the pedal to the metal and make a difference!

What to expect

If you are passionate about animal welfare and looking for a rewarding volunteer role then perhaps consider becoming a driver for RSPCA Qld.  Being a large organisation, responsible for the care of over 50,000 animals annually, we are looking for reliable individuals to help transport both domestic and wild animals locally and regionally, and help with other tasks, such as collecting donated food. 

Every day we need assistance moving animals between campuses, pounds facilities, rehoming centres, vet surgeries and carers. You would be provided with all the necessary equipment, including an RSPCA vehicle, during your shift.  Please note drivers must have an open licence.

What are the benefits?

• Gain a greater understanding of the RSPCA operations.
• Becoming part of a friendly new team and making a great contribution to the ability of the RSPCA to raise much needed funds and care for animals in need.

What are the tasks?

The position involves transporting wildlife and domestic patients as well as collecting donations and includes:

• Significant driving around the Toowoomba area, using an RSPCA vehicle.
• Travelling between Toowoomba shelter, vet clinics, pet barns, council and our Toowoomba Op Shop.

What skills and characteristics do I need?

• Be a courteous and considerate driver.
• Good communication skills.
• Hold a clean, manual open drivers license.
• Sound driving skills and the ability to cope in traffic.
• Physically fit and able to lift 10kg.
• Good animal handling skills.

When can I volunteer?

• We have a vacancy for Mondays, Tuesdays or Wednesdays from 8:00am - 3:00pm. 
• 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 changing traffic and weather conditions.

Important Reminders:

Please note: It is a requirement that before handling animals at the RSPCA you have an up-to-date Tetanus vaccination.

For further information, please contact us at volunteering@rspcaqld.org.au

Be the Friendly Face of Animal Care!

What to expect

This rewarding role would suit applicants who are passionate about animal welfare, 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 Toowoomba, greeting people as they bring animals in, entering critical data onto the RSPCA systems, answering telephone calls 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 animals.  As such you will need to possess a certain level of resilience when handling these situations.

What are the benefits?

• Opportunity to further develop skills and experience in administration and customer service.
• Experience in the day-to-day operations of a busy animal shelter.
• Being part of a team of enthusiastic, hardworking individuals who make a difference in the lives of animals every day.

What are the tasks?

• Greeting members of the public as they enter the shelter.
• Answering phone calls and customer enquiries.
• Assisting staff with adoptions, surrenders and boarding bookings.
• Various data entry tasks.
• Ensuring the reception waiting area is kept clean and tidy at all times.
• Other duties office duties as required.
• Animal handling skills (i.e. putting adoption cats into carry boxes)

What skills and characteristics do I need?

• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Confident, friendly nature and positive in meeting new people and making them feel welcome
• Prepared to be involved in some delicate and sometimes challenging situations
• Reliable, with the ability to work independently , take initiative and multitask
• Computer literate with a good knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel
• Willingness to learn handling techniques and housing requirements for incoming animals

When can I volunteer?

Our current available shifts are:

• Saturday and Sunday 9:30am-3:00pm 
• The successful candidate may have to attend training during the week

• We request a minimum commitment of 1 x shift per week for a minimum of 3 months. 

Important Reminders:

PLEASE NOTE: 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 

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?

• Increased awareness of our native wildlife and the issues they face.
• Native animal handling and identification skills.
• Get to know your local wildlife and community.
• Be part of the RSPCA QLD 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 and Transport: Attending wildlife transport and rescue requests in your local area and deliver animals to a nearby vet clinic or local Wildlife carer.
• Wildlife Reunites: Attempt to reunite juvenile birds and other animals with their parents.
• In this role you will only deal with common and non-dangerous species (Smal-Med Birds, Lizards, Turtles & Possums) and you will not be dealing with high-risk animals (Roo’s, Koalas, Bats, Goanna’s, Birds of Prey, snakes) and no rescue situations that involve high risk (on ladders, in a water body, at heights, in a confined space)
• Community Engagement: Engage with members of the public in a positive way and represent RSPCA QLD when responding to rescue and transportation requests and provide advice or education when appropriate. 

What skills and characteristics do I need?

• Confidence when interacting with a variety of wildlife species.
• Must be over 18 years of age, hold a valid Queensland driver's licence, and access to a suitable roadworthy and insured vehicle, you will be using your own vehicle and equipment.
• Willingness to learn about wildlife and rescue techniques.
• Adherence to RSPCA Queensland WH&S guidelines and code of conduct.
• Able to be flexible and adaptable but work in a safe manner and not put yourself or others at risk or harm.
• Excellent communication skills and able to stay calm and objective.
• Genuine interest in animal welfare and the objectives of RSPCA Qld.

When can I volunteer?

You can nominate the times and locations you want to carry out transports and rescues that suits you, this is a flexible volunteer role you can do to fit into your lifestyle.

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.