This year’s theme is Your Year to Volunteer, a reminder of the impact that volunteers make when they give their time and skills: the connections they create, the purpose that can be found, and the stronger community connections that develop.
It’s especially meaningful as 2026 marks the United Nations International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development; recognising the vital role volunteers play in building a more sustainable and inclusive world.
At Wildlife Victoria, that impact is felt every single day.
Our Emergency Response Service provides a critical lifeline for native wildlife and the community. With calls for help increasing each year, this service ensures that wildlife emergencies do not go unanswered. Behind every call is an animal in need and our volunteers ensure they receive the care they deserve. The ERS provides a safety net for wildlife, but we simply could not function without a statewide network of volunteers.
Volunteer transporters provide essential support behind the scenes, ensuring animals reach the care they need. Volunteer rescuers step into challenging and often unpredictable situations, offering hands-on assistance to wildlife and reassurance to the community. Volunteer foster carers and shelters provide essential rehabilitation, caring for animals from rescue to recovery and preparing them for release back into the wild.
Many of our volunteers give their time at personal cost – fuel, equipment, and countless hours – driven by a dedication to protect Victoria’s native animals. That generosity does not go unnoticed.
On behalf of everyone at Wildlife Victoria, the wider community, and our precious native wildlife, thank you.