Our Work in the Field

Emergency Response Team

RSPCA NSW has a dedicated Volunteer Emergency Response Team that plays a vital role in supporting animals and their owners impacted by bushfires, floods, and other emergencies across NSW.

These volunteers help establish animal safe spaces at evacuation centres and RSPCA Relief Points in communities affected by severe weather. They distribute essential pet supplies, offer guidance, and provide comfort to pet owners during times of crisis.

We are also fortunate to have volunteer vets and nurses who conduct animal health checks at evacuation centres, ensuring animals receive necessary medical care.

With research showing that up to 70% of Australians have a pet, it’s clear that animals are cherished members of many families, often offering much-needed comfort during tough times. Joining the Emergency Response Team means supporting entire communities, and their animals.

We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of our volunteers—the animals are lucky to have you! There are a variety of roles available within the team. Scroll down to learn more and discover how you can apply to join us.

Emergency Response Team

Emergency Response Team

RSPCA NSW has a dedicated Volunteer Emergency Response Team that plays a vital role in supporting animals and their owners impacted by bushfires, floods, and other emergencies across NSW.

These volunteers help establish animal safe spaces at evacuation centres and RSPCA Relief Points in communities affected by severe weather. 

We are also fortunate to have volunteer vets and nurses who conduct animal health checks at evacuation centres, ensuring animals receive necessary medical care.

Inspectors

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is the lead agency for animal welfare during emergencies, with RSPCA NSW as a key supporting partner.

Through this partnership, RSPCA NSW Inspectors are assigned tasks that utilise their specialised training, equipment, and expertise in animal welfare. They are deployed to perform animal rescues, manage the capture and relocation of displaced animals, and deliver supplies to animals isolated by events like floods.

In emergency situations, inspectors may also be required to humanely euthanise severely injured animals, like livestock and wildlife impacted by bushfires. These decisions are made with careful consideration of the animals’ health and likelihood of recovery.

RSPCA NSW works closely with NSW Emergency Services and is committed to improving public education on animal safety during emergencies through ongoing collaboration.

Emergency Preparedness

RSPCA NSW has a dedicated Volunteer Emergency Response Team that plays a vital role in supporting animals and their owners impacted by bushfires, floods, and other emergencies across NSW.

These volunteers help establish animal safe spaces at evacuation centres and RSPCA Relief Points in communities affected by severe weather. They distribute essential pet supplies, offer guidance, and provide comfort to pet owners during times of crisis.

We are also fortunate to have volunteer vets and nurses who conduct animal health checks at evacuation centres, ensuring animals receive necessary medical care.

With research showing that up to 70% of Australians have a pet, it’s clear that animals are cherished members of many families, often offering much-needed comfort during tough times. Joining the Emergency Response Team means supporting entire communities, and their animals.

We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of our volunteers—the animals are lucky to have you! There are a variety of roles available within the team. Scroll down to learn more and discover how you can apply to join us.

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