Student Volunteering Program

Get Involved

Volunteering at SEA LIFE Sydney

If a career in zoo keeping is for you then you are one of many! Zoo keeping has become increasingly popular in recent years resulting in strong competition within the industry.

SEA LIFE Sydney works closely with TAFE NSW and various Universities within Australia to provide practical experience for those students who are studying to gain entry into the animal care/ zoo industry.

SEA LIFE Sydney staff member feeding turtle

Who can Volunteer?

In order to be apart of SEA LIFE Sydney's Volunteering program, you must: 

  • Be at least 18 years of age 
  • Able to commit to one day per week (Monday - Friday), for a period of 6 months
  • Currently enrolled in Cert II or II Animal Studies or Cert III in Wildlife and Exhibited Animal Care
  • Require work placement as part of ongoing study
  • Able to work between 7:30am - 4pm
  • Be physically fit, healthy and able to lift up to 20kgs

More information

 

What will I need when applying for a volunteer placement?

  • You must have enrolled in a Certificate III in Wildlife and Exhibited Animal Care (TAFE, 12–18 months) or a Certificate II in Animal Studies (TAFE, 6 months)
  • All placements require a one day per week commitment for the length of the placement
  • Over the age of 18 (no school placements, corporate volunteering, recreational volunteering)
  • Have or be able to get a valid NSW Working With Children's Check
  • Must complete onboarding before beginning placement

What will put me ahead of the pack when applying for a Volunteer placement?

  • Follow directions and have good communication
  • Work unsupervised and in a team environment
  • Perform physical tasks, including extended periods of raking and lifting
  • Work in all weather conditions
  • Passion for animals, driven and energetic!

What does a volunteer at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium do?

During your placement, you will receive onsite training, be able to receive relevant TAFE course sign-offs and work with Aquarists, Keepers and other volunteers. This position will include learning how to complete husbandry tasks, and maintenance of enclosures, food and supplement preparation for the animals, contributing to enrichment and training programs and assisting in public interactive areas and talks. It is a physical job, which does include a lot of cleaning and working in a variety of weather conditions.

When is the next volunteer intake at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium?

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium has two intakes a year for volunteers studying with TAFE NSW: January and July.

Does SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium take on year 10 work experience students?

We are sorry friends, but we are unable to accept any students under the age of 18. Our volunteer positions are developed for tertiary students who are currently studying at TAFE (Certificate II - Animal Care, Certificate III – Wildlife and Exhibited Animal Care) as well as University degrees in Animal and Veterinary Bio-science and Agriculture

Can I volunteer on a weekend?

We only take volunteers on a weekday i.e. Monday to Friday.

How do I inquire about a volunteer Position at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium?

Simple! Email our volunteer coordinator at VolunteerPlacementssydney@merlinentertainments.com.au

Please provide a bit of background information about yourself and include your resume to assist with the selection process.

 

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