Join our Volunteer Team
Why Volunteer With Us?
Volunteering with Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital is more than lending a hand — it’s becoming part of a compassionate, purpose-driven community working together to protect and heal Australia’s precious wildlife. Whether you’re helping in the hospital, representing us at local markets, or supporting behind the scenes, every role truly matters.
Be Part of a Supportive Community
From day one, you’ll be welcomed into a team of friendly, like-minded people who share your passion for wildlife and conservation. We value every volunteer’s contribution and are committed to supporting you every step of the way.
Structured Onboarding & Training
We want you to feel confident, capable, and supported from the very beginning. Here’s what you can expect:
Apply Online
Submit a short application through our website.Face-to-Face Interview
Meet with our team to discuss your interests, skills, and available volunteer roles.Orientation & On-Site Training
Attend an orientation session with our Volunteer Manager, followed by hands-on training alongside an experienced volunteer.Clear Role Descriptions
Receive a detailed overview of your role, responsibilities, and expectations.Empowered to Succeed
We believe in setting you up for success, with guidance, encouragement, and the resources you need to feel confident in your role.
Ongoing Learning & Development
Volunteering with us is also a chance to grow:
Continued Skill Building
Access ongoing learning opportunities in wildlife care, teamwork, conservation, and community engagement as you gain experience.
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Maintenance Volunteers
Help maintain a safe, clean, and well-organised hospital environment. In this practical role, volunteers support general upkeep tasks that ensure a high standard of care and comfort for our wildlife patients and team. It’s ideal for those who enjoy hands-on work and making a tangible difference behind the scenes.
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Hospital Assistant Volunteers
Support the care and rehabilitation of native wildlife. In this hands-on role, volunteers assist with preparing specialised diets, cleaning and maintaining enclosures, and supporting veterinary staff in the animals’ recovery journey. We offer both rostered and flexible opportunities, making it a great way to contribute meaningfully to the wellbeing of sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife.
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Reception Volunteers
Be the friendly face (and voice) that welcomes visitors and supports the daily operations of the hospital. In this role, volunteers greet guests, answer phone calls, and assist with light administrative tasks that help keep everything running smoothly. It’s a great opportunity for those who enjoy engaging with people while contributing to the care of native wildlife.
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Driving Volunteers
Provide vital transport for injured or orphaned wildlife, helping move animals safely from local veterinary clinics to our hospital. Volunteers may also assist with transporting supplies or equipment as needed. A current driver’s licence and a calm, reliable nature are essential for this important role.
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Corporate and Group Volunteers
Looking for a meaningful team experience? Our corporate and group volunteering opportunities offer a unique way to connect your team while making a real impact for native wildlife. From hands-on support around the hospital to assisting with events and community initiatives, these experiences are tailored to be engaging, rewarding, and memorable. Group volunteering can also be linked to your organisation’s social responsibility goals, with opportunities to contribute through donations or ongoing partnerships that directly support the care and rehabilitation of sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife.
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Raptor Centre
Our Raptor Centre volunteers play a vital role in supporting the care and wellbeing of native birds of prey. Working alongside our team, volunteers assist with daily tasks such as preparing food, maintaining enclosures, and ensuring the environment is clean, safe, and enriching for the animals in our care. This role is ideal for those with a passion for wildlife and a willingness to contribute behind the scenes, helping support the recovery and rehabilitation of injured and orphaned raptors.
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Driver & Truck Maintenance Volunteers
Are you an experienced truck driver with an HC licence and a passion for helping wildlife? In this unique role, volunteers help maintain Matilda, our mobile wildlife hospital, and assist with transporting the vehicle to outreach locations and events. You’ll also support basic upkeep, helping extend our lifesaving work across the region. This role is ideal for those with strong driving experience who want to make a meaningful impact behind the scenes.
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Organisational Support & Event Volunteers
Help us spread the word and raise vital funds! These behind-the-scenes roles support our outreach, promotions, and fundraising activities, as well as assisting at events that connect our community with the work we do. From helping run stalls and engaging with the public to supporting event coordination, these roles are ideal for creative or admin-savvy volunteers who want to make a meaningful difference for wildlife.
A Day in the Life: Saya, Hospital Volunteer
Saya arrived for her shift and joined the team for the morning meeting, where the day’s priorities and patient updates were shared. From there, she moved into food preparation, helping to prepare specialised diets for the animals in care.
Throughout the morning, Saya assisted with laundry and general cleaning, ensuring enclosures were fresh, safe, and comfortable. She spent time supporting the veterinary nurse, helping with small but important tasks that keep the hospital running smoothly.
Later in her shift, Saya carefully cleaned enclosures and even had the opportunity to gently assist with cleaning a turtle’s shell — a delicate task that requires patience and care.
Every task, big or small, played a part in supporting the recovery of the animals. By the end of her shift, Saya had contributed to the wellbeing of multiple patients, gaining hands-on experience and making a meaningful difference behind the scenes.
Volunteer #ForTheWildlife
1. You’re Passionate About Wildlife
If you care deeply about the wellbeing of native animals, you’re in the right place. Wildlife welfare is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re always looking for kind, capable people who share that passion.
2. You’re Ready to Help
You bring time, energy, and a willingness to contribute your skills. Whether you can volunteer regularly or just occasionally, your support helps deliver life-saving care to animals in need.
3. Let’s Get Started
Ready to make a difference? Hit the APPLY NOW button and complete our short online application form, sharing your interests, availability, and any skills you’d like to offer. Our team will be in touch to match you with a volunteer role that suits you best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Volunteer FAQs
Do I need experience to volunteer?
No prior experience is required for most roles. We provide training and ongoing support to help you get started. All you need is a love of wildlife and a willingness to learn.
What kind of commitment is expected?
We offer both regular, rostered roles and flexible, on-call opportunities. Some volunteers come in weekly, while others help at events or when needed. We do ask for a minimum commitment of six months to ensure consistency for our animals and team — how often you volunteer within that time is up to you.
Is there a minimum age to volunteer?
Yes. Volunteers must be 18 years or older. For younger people interested in helping, we offer occasional school or community engagement opportunities — feel free to get in touch to learn more.
What volunteer roles are available?
Our volunteer roles include hospital care, reception, maintenance, wildlife transport, farmers markets, and raptor centre support. You can read more about each role above.
Can I volunteer with a friend or partner?
Absolutely! Just mention this in your application and we’ll do our best to place you together where suitable roles are available.
Is training provided?
Yes. All volunteers receive an induction and role-specific, on-the-job training. We also offer ongoing learning opportunities to help you build skills and confidence.
What should I wear or bring?
Please wear enclosed shoes and comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting dirty. We provide a Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital volunteer T-shirt.
I have more questions — who can I contact?
Email our Volunteer Manager, Annette, at
📧 annette@byronbaywildlifehospital.org
How do I sign up?
Complete the form at the top of the page!
