Casual Work Holiday jobs in Melbourne VIC

Do you have a passion for animals and a desire to make a positive impact?

Start Date: mid to late October 2026

RSPCA Victoria, Victoria's leading animal welfare organisation, is seeking compassionate and dedicated individuals to join our Animal Care Team at our Burwood East shelter, in a casual capacity. This role will work across both our cattery or kennels areas.

About RSPCA Victoria

RSPCA Victoria is a non-government, community-based, not-for-profit organisation whose vision is ‘ending cruelty to all animals’. We are Victoria’s best-known and most respected animal welfare organisation.

Our organisation’s purpose is to work with the community to achieve outstanding animal welfare through education, advocacy, and animal care and protection. RSPCA Victoria’s values - clarity and accountability, respect and consideration, and expertise and collaboration - set clear expectations for all our staff and volunteers.

About the role

As an Animal Attendant, you will be responsible for providing excellent day to day care for the animals in our shelter and contributing to the achievement of the best possible welfare outcome for every animal in our care.

Duties and Responsibilities

In this rewarding role, you will enrich the lives of our furry residents, as well as:

• Contribute to the daily management of animals of any species and across all parts of the shelter in a professional and caring manner, including transporting animals as required.
• Observe, document and report health and behaviour concerns of animals in our care and supporting Veterinarians when required.
• Provide a high level care to all animals through cleaning, provision of resources including feeding and medicating, daily enrichment and behavioural rehabilitation.
• Ensure all necessary documentation relating to the management of animals are recorded accurately and in accordance with RSPCA Victoria procedures and timeframes;
• Contribute to a positive and inclusive work environment by effectively communicating and working collaboratively with peers across all departments, including providing support and direction to volunteers.

What we are looking for

• The ability to work rotating rosters including weekends and public holidays.
• Previous experience in an animal care role is highly desirable.
• Ability to demonstrate resilience in a fast paced and challenging work environment and manage time.
• Demonstrated experience working collaboratively within a team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Positive team member and a keen attitude for sharing knowledge and helping others.
• Remain adaptable, positive and proactive in difficult situations

Recruitment Requirements

• Willingness to work at least one weekend per fortnight (one Saturday & one Sunday)
• Holds or is willing to complete a Certificate II in Animal Studies (or equivalent) is highly regarded
• Current and valid Victorian Driver’s License
• Current tetanus vaccination or willingness to obtain

What we can offer you

• Encouraged work-life balance!
• Generous discount on products and services, including Royal Canine pet food, Hush Puppies footwear and RSPCA Victoria retail products.
• Recognised by Mental Health First Aid Australia, as a skilled workplace - Access to a range of mental health and wellbeing supportive initiatives. Excellent EAP, including confidential counselling services and education programs.
• Access to a range of learning and development opportunities that will benefit and support you in your role.

Don't wait, this is your chance to be a hero to animals in need!

How to apply

To learn more about our organisation and this job opportunity, please visit our website at rspcavic.org and download the Position Description for more details. If you have any questions, please contact our Recruitment Team via recruitment@rspcavic.org.au for a confidential discussion.

*Applications close Wednesday 16 September 2026*

RSPCA Victoria is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and we strongly encourage people from all cultural backgrounds to apply, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Applicants are welcome to access RSPCA Victoria’s Diversity & Inclusion Policy here.