RSPCA Victoria is currently searching for the next intake of Inspectors across Victoria to help investigate reports of animal cruelty as the service transitions to a 2 Up operating model to improve the safety of its frontline workers, where Inspectors will respond to cruelty reports in pairs.
Nearly 40% of all animal cruelty reports last financial year were related to animals in regional areas, resulting in 738 animals either seized by or surrendered to RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate.
The team are specifically looking to recruit four Inspectors, one each in the Sale, Shepparton, Bendigo areas, and South-East Melbourne metro area to join the current team of 26 Inspectors.
Successful candidates will undertake an initial six-week onsite induction at RSPCA Victoria’s Burwood East headquarters, followed by expert field training with senior Inspectors.
RSPCA Victoria Chief Inspector Michelle Green cautioned the job is not for the faint-hearted with Inspectors often faced with confronting situations.
“Our Inspectors are on the frontlines investigating animal cruelty,” Chief Inspector Green said.
“This includes investigating cases where animals have been severely neglected, but also cases where they have been maliciously abused.
“Inspectors work in very challenging environments and witness firsthand the toughest side of not only animal but also human welfare.
“Having a commitment to animal welfare and expertise in communication are just some of the key personal attributes we are looking for in new Inspectors, with resilience being at the top of the list.
“It’s not easy to do this crucial work, and it takes a team of strong and committed individuals.
“A large part of what our Inspectors do is offering help and education to those who need it most, and it can be extremely rewarding to work with community members who are willing to improve the lives of their animals.
“Sadly though, there are cases where Inspectors must hold serious offenders to account.
“Those with backgrounds in investigations and law enforcement, animal husbandry, and frontline public facing roles make great Inspectors.”
RSPCA Victoria Inspectors are the only authorised officers under the Prevention of Cruelty To Animals Act 1986 who currently enforce and prosecute horse welfare in the state.
“We received nearly 1,200 cruelty reports related to horses last financial year, which was a 32% increase in the number of reports involving horses so experience with horses is also a plus when considering the role of an Inspector” Chief Inspector Green continued.
To learn more about becoming an RSPCA Victoria Inspector, or to apply click here.
