About Us

Wildlife rescuer treating injured kangaroo

Our Story

Australian Wildlife Rescues was founded in 2007 by Dr. Emma Mitchell, a wildlife veterinarian who witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of habitat loss and urban development on native species. What began as a small rehabilitation center operating from Emma's backyard in Bondi has grown into one of New South Wales' premier wildlife rescue organizations.

In our early days, we focused primarily on treating injured birds and small marsupials. However, as bushfires, drought, and urban expansion increasingly threatened larger species, we expanded our facilities and expertise to care for kangaroos, koalas, and echidnas – iconic Australian animals facing mounting survival challenges.

A pivotal moment in our history came during the catastrophic 2019-2020 bushfire season. Our team worked tirelessly on the frontlines, rescuing and treating hundreds of burned and displaced animals. The overwhelming public support we received during this crisis enabled us to purchase our current purpose-built facility in Bondi Beach, where we continue our mission of rescue, rehabilitation, and release.

Today, Australian Wildlife Rescues operates with a team of 15 staff and over 200 trained volunteers. We respond to approximately 3,000 wildlife emergencies annually across the Greater Sydney region and collaborate with conservation partners throughout Australia to protect our unique native fauna.

Our Mission & Values

Guiding principles that drive our conservation efforts

Our Mission

To rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured and displaced native Australian wildlife while educating the community about conservation and coexistence with our unique native species.

We strive to be the leading wildlife rescue organization in New South Wales, known for our expertise, compassion, and successful rehabilitation outcomes. Through our work, we aim to contribute to the preservation of Australia's biodiversity and inspire the next generation of wildlife advocates.

Our Core Values

Compassion: Every animal deserves care and respect, regardless of species or conservation status.
Expertise: We maintain the highest standards of veterinary care and rehabilitation practices based on scientific evidence.
Integrity: We operate with transparency, honesty, and ethical consideration in all our actions.
Education: We believe knowledge is a powerful conservation tool and are committed to community awareness.
Collaboration: We partner with scientists, government agencies, and other organizations to achieve better outcomes for wildlife.
Sustainability: Our operations minimize environmental impact and model conservation principles.

Meet Our Team

Dedicated professionals working to save Australia's native wildlife

Dr. Emma Mitchell

Founder & Chief Veterinarian

With over 20 years of experience in wildlife medicine, Emma founded Australian Wildlife Rescues after working with conservation organizations across Australia and internationally. She specializes in trauma treatment and rehabilitation protocols for marsupials and holds a PhD in Wildlife Conservation from the University of Sydney.

Dr. James Cooper

Senior Wildlife Veterinarian

James brings Indigenous ecological knowledge and modern veterinary practice together in his approach to wildlife care. A proud Gadigal man, he specializes in native species nutrition and metabolic disorders. James leads our team's research on improved rehabilitation outcomes for orphaned joeys and injured koalas.

Sarah Nguyen

Education & Outreach Director

Sarah oversees our community education programs, school workshops, and volunteer training. With a background in environmental education and a Master's in Conservation Biology, she has developed our award-winning wildlife awareness curriculum now used in schools across New South Wales.

Michael Rodriguez

Rescue Operations Manager

A former firefighter, Michael coordinates our emergency rescue response team. He's developed specialized rescue techniques for dangerous situations including cliff rescues, water rescues, and fire zone operations. Michael trains all new rescue volunteers and maintains our fleet of rescue vehicles and equipment.

Our Achievements

Milestones that mark our journey in wildlife conservation

12,000+

Animals Rescued

Since our founding, we've successfully rescued over twelve thousand injured, orphaned, and displaced native animals. Each rescue represents a life saved and contributes valuable data to our understanding of threats facing Australian wildlife.

78%

Release Success Rate

Our rehabilitation protocols have achieved a 78% successful release rate, significantly above the national average. This metric reflects the quality of our veterinary care, rehabilitation facilities, and release assessment processes.

25,000+

People Educated

Through our school programs, community workshops, and public events, we've educated over twenty-five thousand people about wildlife conservation and rescue. Our education initiatives create informed advocates for wildlife protection.

14

Published Studies

Our team has contributed to fourteen peer-reviewed scientific publications on wildlife rehabilitation, nutrition, and conservation medicine. This research has influenced rehabilitation practices nationally and internationally.

500+

Trained Volunteers

We've trained over five hundred community members in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, creating a network of skilled responders across New South Wales. Our volunteer program has become a model for other wildlife organizations.

120

Hectares Protected

Through partnerships with conservation organizations and landowners, we've helped secure 120 hectares of crucial wildlife habitat. These protected areas provide safe release sites for rehabilitated animals and preserve biodiversity.

What People Say

Testimonials from volunteers, supporters, and partners

"When I found an injured possum in my backyard, I had no idea what to do. The Australian Wildlife Rescues team not only arrived quickly but took time to explain the rescue process and even followed up with updates about the animal's recovery. Their dedication is remarkable, and they've inspired me to become a regular donor and advocate for wildlife protection."

Olivia Bennett

Local Resident, Bondi

"As a primary school teacher, I've witnessed firsthand how the wildlife education programs from Australian Wildlife Rescues captivate my students. Their presenters bring such passion and knowledge, and the opportunity for children to see native animals up close creates lasting impressions. Several of my former students have gone on to volunteer with wildlife causes because of these formative experiences."

David Chen

Primary School Teacher, Sydney

"The collaboration between our national park and Australian Wildlife Rescues has been invaluable. Their expertise in rehabilitation and release has significantly improved outcomes for wildlife affected by bushfires in our region. Their team's understanding of habitat requirements and animal behavior ensures that releases are well-planned and successful. They're an essential partner in our conservation efforts."

Rebecca Wilson

Wildlife Officer, NSW National Parks