The RSPCA federation works collaboratively to make animals’ lives better. The RSPCA’s member Societies in each state and territory run animal rehoming shelters, investigate and prosecute animal cruelty complaints, educate the community on animal welfare and responsible pet ownership, and advocate for changes in policy and practice that improve the welfare of animals.
RSPCA Australia, as the federation’s national body, is a leading source of animal welfare science, and works with governments and industries to progress animal welfare across a range of issues. In addition, RSPCA Australia runs the RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme, which works with farmers and brands to improve the lives of millions of farm animals.
Read on to find out more about the mission, purpose, vision, values, and principles of RSPCA Australia.
RSPCA Australia mission
To prevent cruelty to animals by actively promoting their care and protection.
RSPCA Australia purpose
To make animals’ lives better.
RSPCA Australia vision
All animals have a good life.
RSPCA Australia values
- Compassion: We believe a kind approach benefits all.
- Courage: We do what is right for animals over what is easy to do.
- Integrity: We earn the trust upon which our work depends.
- Knowledge: We make informed decisions.
- Tenacity: We never give up
RSPCA Australia principles
- We consistently align our actions with our purpose and vision.
- With animals’ welfare at the forefront of our thinking, we act in their best interests – no matter how challenging.
- We are transparent, explaining what we do, why we do it, where we are and where we are heading.
- We strive for continuous improvement – knowing that small steps are progress, even as we embrace the longer-term view.
- We work collaboratively to achieve the best outcomes. We recognise and respect the intrinsic dignity of all
Objectives of the RSPCA in Australia
- To prevent cruelty to animals by ensuring the enforcement of existing laws at federal and state level.
- To procure the passage of such amending or new legislation as is necessary for the protection of animals.
- To develop and promote policies for the humane treatment of animals that reflect contemporary values and scientific knowledge.
- To educate the community with regard to the humane treatment of animals..
- To engage with relevant stakeholders to improve animal welfare.
- To sustain an intelligent public opinion regarding animal welfare.
- To operate facilities for the care and protection of animals.
How we govern ourselves
RSPCA Australia is the federal body of the eight autonomous state and territory Australian member Societies. RSPCA Australia works with its members in establishing national policies and positions on animal welfare, as well as working with both government and industry on national animal welfare issues.
The RSPCA in Australia is a federation, with eight autonomous state and territory RSPCA entities being members of the federal body, RSPCA Australia. Each of the nine entities is governed by a Board. The Board of RSPCA Australia comprises one nominated director from each of the eight member Societies, plus a recruited Chair and up to two other recruited directors.
Find out more about how the RSPCA is governedWe’re proud of our highly experienced team of experts, both in our office and on the RSPCA Australia board of directors.
Meet our board
Our history
The first Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Australia was formed in Victoria in 1871. Since then, RSPCA member Societies have been established in every state and territory, culminating in the formation of a national body, RSPCA Australia, in 1980.
Read more about the RSPCA’s history
Our policies
The RSPCA’s policies on animal welfare are based on rigorous scientific evidence, and guide all of our work. Policy statements are adopted on the unanimous vote of the RSPCA’s state and territory member Societies.
View the RSPCA’s policies
Working with the RSPCA
Many people who care about animals consider turning their passion into a career, and enquire about coming to work at the RSPCA. While most people are familiar with our shelter staff and uniformed inspectors, there are actually a wide range of jobs available at the RSPCA.
View available opportunities