20/01/2026
Please be careful who you donate to. The animals need the money, and it shouldn’t line unscrupulous people’s pockets..
PSA
BAWCS has been contacted by a number of community members regarding a wildlife rescue group currently running a fundraiser, claiming to be assisting sick, injured, and fire-impacted native wildlife across our region.
When asked which wildlife shelters this group is working with, questions have either gone unanswered or have been answered inaccurately. One wildlife group recently named has confirmed they have not received any animals from this group.
In addition, reputable wildlife rescue groups that BAWCS works closely with have advised that this group does not have fully qualified rescuers and that their practices are concerning.
A separate comment questioning why the fundraiser’s beneficiary was listed as an individual (rather than an organisation) was deleted, and the person who asked has since been blocked.
Once again, BAWCS urges anyone donating to groups claiming to assist wildlife during the current Victorian bushfire emergency to do your research before donating.
Ask questions.
- Can they clearly explain / list who they work with ie: which registered wildlife shelters?
- Can they provide a receipt for your donation? Even without DGR status, a receipt should still be available on request.
- Do they have ACNC charity status?
- Can they clearly explain where the funds are going, particularly if the beneficiary is an individual and will they be transparent with the public about how those funds are actually used?
If you are not satisfied with their answers, reach out to others, particularly the wildlife groups being named as receiving animals.
Being blocked or silenced for asking reasonable questions is an immediate red flag. Transparency matters when people are asking for public donations.
There are many reputable wildlife rescue groups doing extraordinary work during this emergency (see comments section for a list BAWCS has issued previously).
Those are the groups that deserve your support. Not those seeing an opportunity to take advantage during this disaster for wildlife.
Photo credit: Murrindindi Ranges Wildlife Shelter Inc. Reputable rescue donation details: Account Name: Murrindindi Ranges Wildlife Shelter / Account Number: 159658038 BSB: 633-000
PAYPAL link in comments.
BAWCS 'caring with compassion'
