Found sick or injured wildlife?
If you come across a native animal that is hurt, sick, trapped or orphaned anywhere in Victoria, fast help makes all the difference. Call the state hotline straight away, then scroll down for the right number in every other state and territory.
Victoria · 24/7 hotline
Wildlife Victoria Emergency Response Service
Phones and the online report form are staffed 24 hours, 7 days.
First steps before help arrives
A few simple things give an injured animal its best chance while you wait for a rescuer or get advice on the phone.
Keep your distance
Keep people, children and pets well away. Most wildlife is easily stressed, and stress alone can be fatal.
Note the exact spot
Record where you found the animal. Many natives are territorial and need to be released back to the same place.
Contain it gently, if safe
Where safe, place the animal in a ventilated box lined with a towel, somewhere dark, quiet and warm.
No food or water
Do not offer food or water unless a trained rescuer tells you to. The wrong food can do real harm.
Some animals, never handle
Don't touch snakes, bats, large kangaroos or birds of prey. Call a rescuer for advice first, every time.
Check the pouch
If you pass a dead marsupial, a joey may still be alive in the pouch. Mention it when you call.
Wildlife emergency contacts by state
Travelling beyond Victoria, or sharing this with someone interstate? Here is who to call across Australia.
Tip: save or screenshot this list so the numbers are handy on the road.
State / Territory
Who to call
Phone
Australia-wide
Wildlife Rescue Australia
24-hour call centre
ACT
ACT Wildlife
Rescue line
NSW
WIRES
24/7
NT
Wildcare Inc NT
Darwin
QLD
RSPCA Qld
7am–7pm, 7 days
SA
Fauna Rescue SA
24/7
TAS
Bonorong Wildlife Rescue
24/7
VIC
Wildlife Victoria
24/7
WA
Wildcare Helpline
24/7 · DBCA