Our role

The state and territory member Societies provide services to animals in need through their shelters and inspectorates. In the national office, RSPCA Australia works to influence animal welfare policy, practice and legislation across the country
Go to Our role

Key issues

The RSPCA advocates for the welfare of animals across a number of industries, issues and platforms. Help from our supporters is important to progress change. Working together is key.
Go to Key issues
take action live sheep export alternate
Priority issue
Australia is closer than it has ever…
Live sheep export

Support us

Whether you're an individual or a business, there are multiple ways you can support the RSPCA
Go to Support us
An animal in the RSPCA care being cared for by an RSPCA vet
Donate now to support your local RSPCA and make a difference to animal welfare across Australia
Donate

About

The RSPCA is an independent, community-based charity providing animal care and protection services across the country.
Go to About
about us national statistics
Read our National Statistics
Compiled on a national basis by RSPCA…
Annual statistics

Adopt

By choosing adoption, you’ll not only have the chance to make a friend for life, but you’ll be giving an animal a second chance and helping support the RSPCA.
Go to Adopt
adopt a pet logo
Visit the Adoptapet website
Make a difference to a pet’s life today.
Search Adoptapet
Report animal cruelty

If you have witnessed animal cruelty, including neglect or abandonment, you should report it via phone or online form to the RSPCA Inspectorate team in the state or territory it took place.

Northern Territory reports should be made through the NT Government.

How we investigate
1
Case reported

An individual contacts the RSPCA by phone, the internet or by attending one of the RSPCA's facilities

2
Contact details

Contact details are taken from the person making the report. These details are confidential and are not provided to the nominated person of interest.

3
Dispatch inspector

The report is assessed and dispatched to an Inspector via a database and vehicle communication system as appropriate. The Inspectorate may contact the reporter for further information.

4
Attend premises

An RSPCA Inspector will attend the nominated location. They have the power to enter the premises and inspect animals without the presence or knowledge of the occupant. They will view the animals in question and will attempt to speak to the occupant regarding the condition of the animals, their environment or the report generally.

5
Take action

All reports are actioned. The action taken depends on whether offences are determined under the legislation. The Inspector will do one of the following: give advice, issue instructions to rectify a matter, issue an on the spot fine, or commence a prosecution (which may involve the seizure of animals). Inspecotrs will revisit to check if instructions have been complied with.

subscribe box

Stay informed on big issues and how you can help improve animal welfare across Australia.

Subscribe today and we’ll keep you updated on all the latest campaigns, events and news.