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Keeper Volunteer Program

Are you passionate about animals and eager to learn more about the animal industry?

Discover Your Passion for Animal Care

Oakvale Wildlife Park's Keeper Volunteer Program offers a unique opportunity for individuals to gain hands-on experience and develop new skills in animal care. This program is ideal for students pursuing animal-related courses who can commit to one day per week.

Program Overview

Volunteering at Oakvale Wildlife Park provides a chance to participate in the daily operations of our park, experiencing the diverse duties involved in working at a privately owned zoo. Volunteers will acquire valuable insights and practical knowledge about animal care, contributing meaningfully to our team.

This program is perfect for:

  • TAFE students enrolled in animal-related courses (e.g., Companion Animals, Exhibited Animals).
  • University students enrolled in animal-related courses (e.g., Animal Science, Agriculture).
  • If you are not enrolled in an animal-related course but would still like to volunteer at Oakvale Wildlife Park, please click here.

Requirements

To be eligible for the Keeper Volunteer Program, each volunteer must:

  • Be 18 years of age or older.
  • Commit to one day per week on the same day each week from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.
  • Provide a medical certificate from your local GP confirming you are fit to work independently in a mentally and physically demanding environment.
  • Be willing to work outside in all weather conditions.
  • Be capable of performing physically demanding tasks without supervision.
  • Have clear communication skills.
  • Dress appropriately, including sturdy enclosed footwear.
  • Have the ability to work independently and follow sometimes complex instructions.
  • Participate in duties that may involve unpleasant odors and/or getting dirty.
  • Be able to liaise with the public if and when required.
  • Pay a $50 non-refundable deposit in exchange for an Oakvale volunteer shirt.
  • Undergo a 4-week trial period to assess suitability for the program.

Join us at Oakvale Wildlife Park and take the first step towards a rewarding career in animal care!

APPLICATION PROCESS

To apply, please complete the following form along with the required documents.

Please note: Oakvale Wildlife Park's management reserves the right to terminate a volunteer's placement without warning if the behavior, attitude, or appearance of the volunteer does not align with the company's policies or expectations.
Please Note: There are a limited number of volunteer positions available, a waiting list will be utilised as vacancies arise. There is no guarantee of paid employment at Oakvale Wildlife Park or within the zoological industry as a result of being involved in our volunteer program. Successful applicants will also be required to read, understand and agree to various policies relating to Code of Conduct, Safe Work Practices, etc. Oakvale undertakes 4 volunteer intakes each year on an as need basis.