- Date:
- 30 June 2023
The Victorian wildlife rehabilitation system
In Victoria, sick, injured or orphaned wildlife can only be rehabilitated by a wildlife shelter operator or foster carer who is authorised under section 28A of the Wildlife Act 1975 (Wildlife Act).
Wildlife shelter operators and foster carers are collectively known as wildlife rehabilitators. As a wildlife rehabilitator, you are authorised to acquire, receive, possess, destroy (euthanise) and dispose of wildlife for the purposes of the care, treatment and rehabilitation of sick, injured or orphaned wildlife for release back to the wild.
Your dedication and commitment to Victoria’s native wildlife is highly valued by the Victorian Government and the community.
Purpose of the guide
This authorisation guide explains the conditions of your authorisation, the objectives of each condition and how you can comply.
Capacity to care
It is important to consider your capacity before agreeing to take wildlife into care.
Failure to comply with conditions
Failure to comply with the conditions of your authorisation is an offence under section 28B.
Authorisation conditions
Information pertaining to the 25 authorisation conditions.
Appendix 1 : Important contact details for wildlife rehabilitators
Contact details for DEECA offices and facilities mentioned in this guide.
Appendix 2 : Further information
Further resources for capture and rescue of injured, sick or orphaned wildlife and basic first aid for wildlife.
Updated