Frequently Asked Questions
Can I come and volunteer on Christmas Day or Boxing Day?
Unfortunatley not. Due to the amount of orientation and training required with each position we are unable to take volunteers for just one or two days. Fairfield Shelter recruits each November for "Summer Holiday Volunteers" who volunteer during the summer months of December and January (please see our Positions Available for details).
Another way to help out over the holiday period is by donating food or toys to the animals - something from Santa Paws to go underneath the Christmas Tree!
Do I need to have experience working with animals to volunteer at the RSPCA?
No you don't! Most of our volunteers have no formal experience, just a love of animals and a passion to assist the RSPCA.
I am allergic to cats/dogs; will this preclude me from volunteering at the RSPCA?
We do have some volunteers with allergies. If you have a cat allergy, you can work with the dogs and vice-versa. It does however depend on the severity of your allergy - there is a lot of animal fur around here!
I am under 18. Can I volunteer with the RSPCA?
A shelter situation can be very volatile for all of the animals and humans that work within its walls. We do not have the adequate staffing numbers or time to be able to give consistent monitoring to any minors on the premises. It is not as simple as a Parent/Guardian being able to assist minors either. Our volunteer work requires much training and a proven knowledge of animal behaviour before being competent enough to work individually. Staff in our shelters are not registered as Blue Card holders, which also prohibits minors from working on site under Government regulations.
There are lots of other ways that under 18's can get involved - just email us for details!
Can I bring my children with me when I am volunteering if I supervise them at all times?
Unfortunately not. Please see the answer to the above question.
Can I undertake my Work for the Dole hours at the RSPCA?
You can – you just need to get your Work for the Dole coordinator to contact the Volunteer Coordinator at the Shelter where you wish to undertake the Work for the Dole.
I'd like to volunteer for just one day. Can I do that?
Due to the amount of orientation and training required we are unable to take volunteers for just one day. However if you are interested in a corporate volunteer day organised through your workplace, please see our Corporate Volunteers page.
What is the process to become a volunteer? Why can't I start straight away?
Once you have checked the website and found a position you are interested in, have a read through of the position description. If it sounds like something that would like to get more information on, call or email the contact listed. The volunteer coordinator will conduct a brief phone interview with you and you will be booked in to attend an Orientation session. The orientation will go over everything you need to know before you start your first shift.
Can I do Work Experience or Prac at the RSPCA?
Yes we do take work experience students from High School (16 years plus) or University. To check dates and availability please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at the Shelter where you wish to undertake the work experience.