I want to donate
Regular gifts keep admin costs low and help us plan ahead!
All donations over $2 are tax deductible
FOR ANIMALS SINCE 1871
For 155 years, one thing has remained true: animals need people who care.
When a small group of concerned Victorians came together in 1871 to form what would become RSPCA Victoria, they did so because they believed animals deserved kindness, protection and compassion. It was the first RSPCA established in Australia, born from concern for the treatment of working horses on the streets of Melbourne.
The world has changed enormously since then. Animal welfare has advanced. Community expectations have evolved. New challenges have emerged.
But one thing has never changed.
Animals still need people who care. And people who act.
V.S.P.A Front Desk
V.S.P.A Ambulance 1945
The story of animal welfare in Victoria is the story of generations of animal lovers who refused to look away when an animal needed help. People who opened their homes, volunteered their time, spoke up for those without a voice, and gave what they could to create a kinder future.
Together, they helped create lasting change for animals.
Over the years, that collective commitment has contributed to important advances in animal welfare, including the establishment of animal shelters and veterinary services, compulsory microchipping, the banning of tail docking in dogs, and stronger protections for animals across our community.
Every photograph on this page represents more than a moment in time. It reflects a shared commitment carried across generations - ordinary people coming together to improve the lives of animals.
Because progress for animals has never happened by accident. It has always been made possible by people.
Today, that responsibility continues.
Thousands of animals still need rescue, treatment, shelter, advocacy and care. The challenges may look different to those faced in 1871, but the need for compassion remains the same.
For 155 years, every act of kindness has helped build a better future for animals. Every person who chose to care has become part of that story.
If animal welfare matters to you, we invite you to continue that legacy.
Your donation today will help ensure that animals receive the care, protection and compassion they need — not just now, but for generations to come.
For animals since 1871. For animals today. For animals still to come.
Burwood Kennels 1946
Inspector F.C.W Brown Helping an Injured Cat
Burwood Kennels
V.S.P.A Horse Ambulance