The objectives of the Society are implemented by the RSPCA Inspectors, who are the Society's uniformed representatives. The Inspectorate, which consists of approximately 84 Inspectors, are specifically trained in the area of animal welfare and in the enforcement of prevention of cruelty to animal legislation across Australia.

Throughout Australia, RSPCA Inspectors investigate over 55,000 complaints of cruelty and neglect each year. Reports of cruelty cover many areas, including farm animals, companion animals, pet animals and native animals.

The Inspectors' primary role is as follows:

• To investigate complaints of cruelty and neglect.
• To provide guidance and education to animal owners where necessary.
• To initiate prosecutions for offences.
• To attend to sick and injured stray animals or those which have been abandoned.
• To carry out regular inspections of saleyards, pet shops, abattoirs, livestock export operations, animal boarding and breeding establishments, intensive and non-traditional farms, and all places where animals are kept and used for public entertainment.

The Inspectorate plays a vital role within the RSPCA and maintaining their presence is essential in providing continuity of animal welfare services to the community. Unfortunately the cost of maintaining this service is not inexpensive. The associated costs of funding just one RSPCA Inspector can be as much as $100,000 each year, which constitutes a large part of each Society's annual budget. Whilst each state and territory RSPCA struggles to raise enough funds for its existing Inspectors, the sad reality is that, more Inspectors are desperately needed.

Your donation will help the RSPCA prevent cruelty to animals across Australia, and will make a direct difference to those animals that need a helping hand.

If you would like to register a complaint regarding the ill treatment of an animal or make a donation, please do so by contacting your nearest RSPCA shelter. To find out detailed information about the work of the RSPCA Inspectors in your area please refer to your local RSPCA state or territory site.