Victorian Government Wildlife Laws and Code of Practice

Keeping native animals as pets without a license in Australia is illegal and carries heavy fines and/or imprisonment.  We can understand the allure of keeping baby wombats and  kangaroos as pets, we really do, but unless you are specifically licensed, you are not permitted by law to take an animal from the wild to keep at home for *any* duration of time even if it is injured. All of our wildlife have specific care needs that are crucial to their survival without which their lives could be severely compromised.  So if you do happen to come across native animals injured, or looking sick, please, just call BADAR on 1300BADGAR.

There are many laws that govern the care, transport and housing of native animals in Australia. In Victoria these laws are enforced by the Department of Sustainability and Environment - Wildlife Officer, and if needed the Police, RSPCA, Quarantine Services.

All  registered foster carers and shelters have gained legal authority to practice animal emergency rescue and rehabilitation of injured and orphaned wildlife under the Wildlife Act of 1975 and the Prevention Of Cruelty to Animals Act

Links to further reading:

• THE WILDLIFE ACT 1975
• (DSE) Department of Sustainability & Environment 
• Code of Practice for the welfare of wildlife during rehabilitation

Blow the whistle:

If you feel native wildlife are in any way being endangered either through theft from the wild or through bad practice or capture technique, or cruelty, please know we support you in your decision to make a formal complaint to the Department of Sustainability and Environment.

To report suspicious wildlife activity or abuse ( including destruction of native vegetation) in your suburb please call your local council or  click here

If you are unhappy with any wildlife volunteer services or wish to make a formal complaint about a wildlife care/capture related issue you should report it straight away. Please click here.

Please take time to read through the Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001.

Its not only a good thing to report animal abuse its the right thing.

Thank you for caring!

She doesn't have a voice - you do.