Help is needed across RSPCA Victoria’s op shops and the charity is calling for additional volunteers. Volunteer positions are available to anyone in Victoria, ranging from students seeking valuable retail experience before starting their career; to senior residents looking for an opportunity to engage with their community; to supporters of RSPCA who want to join a community-based activity group.

RSPCA Victoria’s op shops are supported by teams of dedicated volunteers, with all funds raised at the stores supporting the organisation’s important work to end animal cruelty. The organisation is reliant upon volunteers for the day-to-day operations of op shops across the state.

“After a challenging couple of years, we are looking to expand our team of op shop volunteers across the state and are on the hunt for people who are passionate about helping animals in need by raising desperately needed revenue for the organisation,” said RSPCA Victoria’s Retail and E-commerce Manager, Stephanie Neil.

There are a range of opportunities in RSPCA op shops, with training provided for key retail tasks including customer service, sorting goods, and merchandising. Volunteers are asked to commit to regular four-hour shifts where possible, however casual volunteering is also appreciated.

RSPCA recognises that volunteering isn’t suitable for everyone, and notes there are other ways to support the op shops, including purchasing from their treasure trove of unique goods and bargains, or donating high-quality items for sale.

The volunteers in RSPCA Victoria’s op shops often join for the companionship and the social connections the work provides.

“Our volunteers tell us they’ve made friendships with people whom they wouldn’t have met otherwise.

“Everyone involved wants to contribute to helping animals in need and it’s a great reason to leave home every day,” Ms Neil said.

People interested in volunteering can apply at www.rspcavic.org/opshopvolunteers or see below for a list of RSPCA Victoria’s op shops.