Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo is looking for Zoo Keeper volunteers who are interested in supporting our Animal Care Teams to provide industry leading wildlife care and welfare to our animals at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo.

Rain, hail or shine, our Volunteer Keepers get involved with every aspect of animal care, so expect to be cleaning, chopping, wheelbarrowing, shovelling, raking, and anything else it takes to ensure our animals are provided with the highest level of welfare possible. 

Please refer to the Division Descriptions on this page for more details on each of our areas:

•    Division 1 - Ungulates
•    Division 2 - Australian mammals, farm animals and meerkats
•    Division 3 - Mixed Exotics
•    Division 4 - Elephants
•    Division 5 - Education & Conservation (reptiles, small Aussie mammals & birds)
•    Wildlife Hospital – Animals in triage (Native animals and occasionally collection animals)
 

• 12 month position – At the end of which volunteers may reapply
• Volunteer positions are available 7 days per week, Monday to Sunday
• Refer to the Division Descriptions for information on each of our Keeping Divisions and to decide which are the best fit for you. You will be able to share your preference in the application however please note it won’t be a guarantee you will be appointed that division.
• Shift times vary between Divisions - Please refer to the Division Descriptions.
• Applicants successful in progressing to the next stage will be required to attend a short interview, scheduled for Wednesday 7th of May.
• Successful individuals will be required to attend one mandatory Induction session: Date TBC
   

• Commitment, punctuality, reliability, and a professional, friendly manner
• Demonstrated ability to work as a part of a diverse team and capacity to read, understand and carefully follow directions and WHS protocols
• A good level of fitness and stamina and the ability to work in all weather conditions
• A typical day as a volunteer keeper could see you complete anywhere from 10,000 to 20,000 steps a day.
• Ability to meet the selection criteria for all divisions that you apply for
• All Volunteers are required to acquire and maintain a valid Working with Children Check (FREE for volunteers).
• All volunteers who work with, or care for, an exhibited animal are required to declare any convictions or charges in connection with ‘relevant offences’
• Agree and comply with the Taronga Code of Conduct, Taronga Volunteer Policy and all relevant policies and procedures
   

Fill in the application form below. As part of your application you will need to outline the reason you wish to become a Taronga Volunteer, as well as addressing the selection criteria outlined in the application. 

Apply Now

Applications must be submitted via the application form by 11.55pm on Tuesday the 8th of April 2025
NOTE: Applications received via SEEK/Go Volunteer will NOT be processed. 
If you have any queries, please email volunteer@zoo.nsw.gov.au or call (02) 9978 4695

Cost 
A Volunteer Programs fee of $58 for successful applicants.  
This enables the following Volunteer benefits; 
•    Uniform 
•    Training 
•    Complimentary entry passes to Taronga Zoo Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo for family and friends* 
•    Access to special events 
•    Discounts in our retail and food outlets and on our special programs 
•    Free parking at both sites 
•    Free entry to Zoos Vic, Zoos SA and Zoos WA facilities 
•    Networking opportunities 
•    Opportunity to take part in special events and programs 
*Complimentary passes are distributed in December each year. 
Note: Financial support is available, if you require assistance please contact us.