The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals; New South Wales (RSPCA NSW) is a not-for-profit organisation in Australia that cares for, treats, protects and rehomes animals across the state. As a charity, we strive to ensure that no animal is turned away or forgotten, regardless of whether they are abandoned, neglected, injured or surrendered into our care. With an ultimate goal of improving animal welfare education and keeping people and animals together, RSPCA NSW acknowledges the crucial role of humans in keeping our animals safe.
We run five shelters, two rehabilitation centres and three veterinary hospitals dedicated to treating, rehabilitating and rehoming animals. In addition to this, there are over 20 volunteer branches and support groups that run fundraising events and assist with local microchipping and desexing drives in lower income communities. Along with cats and dogs, RSPCA NSW helps a wide range of other animals, from horses to rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, goats and sheep.
We not only serve animals in need, but also owners who require guidance and support. Our programs tackle animal education and assistance in relation to domestic violence, aged care, homelessness, mental health, and more. Our Inspectorate is the largest animal enforcement unit in the state, with over 30 inspectors dedicated to investigating instances of alleged animal cruelty and a call centre equipped to handle reports. Animals deserve our protection and respect – they make our lives full and remind us what it means to live humanely.
ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care allows students to develop practical skills in animal care and gain a real understanding of animal care and welfare requirements. It is a nationally recognised qualification and an entry point into the animal care and management industry.
Students will learn the fundamental skills needed to care for domestic animals and undertake a practical work placement at an RSPCA NSW shelter. Students are not required to find their own work placement.
The course will introduce students to the concepts of animal hygiene, providing basic animal first aid, communicating effectively with people, staying safe in an animal-related workplace and sourcing information about the needs of animals.
Learn moreThis comprehensive course is best suited to animal attendants, animal management officers, veterinary nurses, and those involved in the microchip implantation of cats and dogs. It involves both theoretical learning and practical training.
Practical assessment includes microchipping 10 live cats and dogs (at least three cats and at least three dogs) under the supervision of a registered veterinarian only.
Learn moreThis unit of competency covers the process of providing essential first aid for animals by recognising and responding to an emergency using basic first aid measures.
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