Rescue Unit Driver and/or Assistant
Help provide urgent assistance to animals in need by supporting RSPCA Queensland's Rescue Unit. Whether volunteering as a Rescue Driver or Driver Assistant, you'll play an important role in responding to animal welfare concerns, transporting animals safely, and helping ensure they receive the care they need.
Key tasks may include:
- Locating, handling and transporting injured, stray or unwell animals
- Driving throughout Greater Brisbane in an RSPCA rescue vehicle
- Collecting animals from veterinary clinics and transporting them to the Wacol Wildlife Hospital or other approved destinations
- Delivering animals to veterinary clinics for treatment or collection
- Interacting with members of the public while assisting animals and gathering relevant information
- Completing required paperwork and maintaining accurate records of rescue activities
What you may gain:
- Experience supporting frontline animal rescue operations
- Opportunities to build confidence handling a variety of animal species
- Practical experience in animal welfare, rescue and transportation procedures
- Experience working alongside experienced rescue staff and volunteers
Skills & requirements:
- A valid, unrestricted Queensland driver's licence (Drivers only) and confidence using GPS navigation
- Confidence working with animals, or a willingness to learn safe handling techniques for a variety of species
- Basic technology skills, including email use and taking photos on an iPhone or iPad
- Physically fit and able to lift up to 10 kg
- Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately follow instructions and complete paperwork
When can I volunteer?
- Driver Assistants: Monday to Sunday
- 7:00 am – 3:05 pm
- 10:00 am – 6:05 pm
- 1:00 pm – 9:05 pm
- Drivers: Monday to Sunday
- 7:00 am – 2:30 pm
- 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- Shorter Driver Shifts:
- 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
- 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
- 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
- Some flexibility with shifts may be available and can be discussed during the application process.
- A minimum commitment of one shift per fortnight for at least three months is required.
- Full orientation and animal handling training provided
Important information:
- This role is based at the Brisbane Animal Care Campus, Wacol.
- Volunteers use an RSPCA vehicle, with an iPhone and iPad provided during shifts.
- Friends or couples may volunteer together, with one volunteering as a Driver and the other as a Driver Assistant once training has been completed.
- This role can be emotionally challenging. Volunteers may encounter animals in distressing, injured or confronting situations. Resilience, empathy and professionalism are essential.
- An up-to-date tetanus vaccination is required before handling animals at RSPCA.
- Shift lengths may vary due to traffic conditions, rescue requirements and weather.
To learn more about the physical and emotional requirements of the role, please review the Essential Capabilities of an RSPCA QLD Rescue Volunteer.
Questions? Please contact the Volunteer Ambulance Coordinator via email on: animalambulance@rspcaqld.org.au
Apply to Volunteer with Us!
Already volunteer with us?
Login
