Professional Development

Courses & Work Experience Placements

We provide training workshops and work experience placements for koala carers, wildlife/animal carers (including those undertaking studies in this field), licensed koala care groups, and government agencies.

Koala Rehabilitation Courses

International Volunteer Program

Our International Volunteer Program provides invaluable experience to passionate wildlife students and carers over a month-long work placement block at our Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie. This program is popular, and placements are offered to a limited number of approved applicants.

Program Details
As part of your placement, you’ll learn how we care for koalas, attend koala rescues and releases (if they occur on your shift), watch and/or assist with some clinical procedures, attend educational presentations, experience work on our plantation, works shifts with our tour guides and retail staff, and gain first-hand insight into our new koala breeding program. We’ll also provide you with a buddy/go-to person for any information or help you may need during your placement.

Duration, Costs & Requirements
The International volunteer placement is for one calendar month, and the registration fee is $AUD 880.00. You’ll need a reasonable level of spoken English, and you'll also need to organise and pay for your meals, accommodation and associated travel expenses. We’ll need proof that your tetanus immunisation is current. Oh, and we strongly recommend you purchase travel insurance when planning your visit!
For more information, read through our FAQs here, or to express your interest, email workexperience@koalahospital.org.au

Work Experience Blocks (Australian Residents)

We currently offer a one-week work experience program block.

To be eligible to apply for a placement, you’ll need to be undertaking studies in animal and/or wildlife care. The current fee is $300, and you’ll need to organise and pay for your own accommodation, meals and transport. If you’re not a member with us, we’ll also need you to be covered by your University or TAFE insurances.

To express your interest in applying for work experience, please email our team.