The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) was established in Melbourne in 1871. Since this time, the RSPCA has become Australia's leading animal welfare charity.
RSPCA Victoria is a member of RSPCA Australia (the federation of the eight state and territory RSPCAs in Australia). The RSPCA National Board consists of the Presidents of their nominees from each member Society, with the CEOs as advisors.
Across the state, the RSPCA's community services include the work undertaken by our Inspectorate, Animal Shelters, Clinics and Educationteams. The RSPCA operates ten animal welfare shelters in Victoria, providing refuge and care and where possible, offering more than 35,000 animals each year a second chance. Our team of RSPCA Inspectors works to protect animals from cruelty, investigates 14,121 estimated reports, prosecutes offenders and rescues animals from dangerous situations. Our Education team contributes to prevention strategies by influencing over 12,000 young people about the value and importance of animals in our lives.
The RSPCA works tirelessly to educate the community regarding animal welfare and to advocate for improved legislation. Legislative improvements to protect animals have been achieved at both state and federal levels, thanks to the continued lobbying of the RSPCA.
As a not-for-profit organisation, the RSPCA relies on community support to care for 'all creatures great and small'. Only 3% of the RSPCA's operating expenses is supported by a grant from the Victorian State Government, so we truly are an organisation funded by the generous Victorian community.