NWC IMPACT
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In 2023–24, the NSW Wildlife Council’s member groups played a vital role in the conservation of our state’s most vulnerable species - 64% of all threatened species that were rescued and released in NSW in 2023-2024 were rescued by NWC members. This remarkable achievement highlights the indispensable role of NWC’s volunteer-led network in safeguarding biodiversity, responding to critical wildlife emergencies, and giving threatened native animals a second chance in the wild.
Rehabilitating and releasing even one Black-striped Wallaby or seven Sea Eagles or one Black-browed Albatross strengthens the gene pool of the local population. To avoid extinction, releasing even a few healthy individuals is an important goal being delivered by our member groups.
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We proudly support over 5,270 wildlife rescuers and rehabilitators across NSW, providing them access to important resources, small grants, and insurance, while amplifying the wildlife sector’s efforts through vital campaigns, collective action, and advocacy.
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Our member groups collectively rescued over 34,346 native animals last year, a testament to their tireless dedication and skill. We’re proud to represent and support these frontline rescuers who give countless animals a second chance at life.
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On average, each of our member rescue groups travels over 23,000 kilometers every year to reach and save injured wildlife. This extraordinary commitment highlights why a strong peak body like the NWC is essential… to advocate for these dedicated volunteers, amplify their voices, and ensure they have the support they need to continue their vital work.
NWC Campaigns
Advocacy and programs that make an impact.
Upcoming Flying Fox Campaign
In 2026, the NSW Wildlife Council will launch a state-wide campaign celebrating and protecting flying-foxes, one of Australia’s most critical keystone species. These intelligent and social animals play an irreplaceable role in our ecosystems - pollinating native forests, dispersing seeds, and supporting biodiversity (including Koalas) and other wildlife far beyond their camps.
Together, we can foster greater understanding and compassion for these vital creatures - ease the burden on local wildlife rescuers and rehabilitators - and ensure their skies remain safe for generations to come.
Wildlife Friendly Roads Campaign
The Wildlife Friendly Roads Campaign is one of the NWC’s flagship initiatives, designed to reduce the devastating toll that roads take on native wildlife and our network of rescuers and rehabilitators.
IFAW Wildlife Reporting App
The NSW Wildlife Council partnered with IFAW on the Wildlife Rescue App, connecting the public with the nearest licensed wildlife rescuers and capturing vital incident data to improve response times and guide conservation efforts.
NWC Learning Hub
The NWC Learning Hub is a landmark initiative designed to further strengthen the skills, capacity, and connection of the NSW wildlife sector. The vision of the NWC Learning Hub is to provide a central, accessible, and easy-to-use online platform where anyone in the rescue and rehabilitation community—from new volunteers to seasoned species specialists—can access the latest knowledge, skills, and resources they need to care for wildlife safely and effectively.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Grants Program
The Wildlife Rehabilitation Grants Program is a cornerstone of our commitment to supporting frontline wildlife rehabilitators across New South Wales. Through this program, member groups and independently licensed rehabilitators can apply for funding (typically from $500 up to $5,000) to purchase essential equipment or construct/upgrade animal enclosures — resources that are otherwise often beyond reach for volunteer-run organisations.
Data Collection & Reporting for Wildlife Rescue Rehabilitation
The NWC supports consistent reporting and data collection by wildlife rehabilitation providers.