Frequently asked questions
Every program fee is itemised: accommodation and stated meals, transfers and in-country coordination, safety and supervision, training, and a contribution to the host project. Flights, insurance and visas are never included. The full breakdown is published on our fees page.
The test we apply is whether the work would still need doing if no volunteer arrived. Projects are screened against the O2E Ethical Standards, animal contact is governed by the O2E Wildlife Code, and anything staged for a photograph is refused.
Yes for most placements. Projects need willingness, reasonable fitness and a stated minimum stay. Training is given on arrival, and our pre-departure guidance tells you exactly what the days involve. Research and veterinary streams list their own prerequisites.
Most volunteers arrive by themselves. Teams are small, the work is shared from the first morning, and staff run introductions and briefings on day one. Volunteer stories from past teams describe how the first week usually goes.
Read the daily schedule and the inclusions on the program page before you decide, talk to us about fit, and start with a shorter placement if you are unsure. Deposits hold a place while you arrange travel, and we will tell you honestly if a program is the wrong match.
Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers is a registered and reputable charity with a long history of ethical conservation work. You can read reviews from past volunteers and verify our credentials on our website. For further confirmation, look up our charity details on the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission (ACNC) at ACNC Charity Search. Learn more about our transparency and mission on our About Us page.
Volunteer travel lets you combine adventure with service – you visit new places while working on meaningful projects that benefit animals, communities, and the environment.
Yes, we do accept donations. Donations help fund our conservation projects and ensure more resources go directly to helping animals and communities. Our bank details are here.
At the heart of Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers are sisters Cassie and Tracy, the passionate co-founders behind O2E. Cassie brings extensive experience in marine conservation and research, while Tracy is a dedicated conservation advocate with a deep commitment to ethical animal welfare. Together, they ensure every volunteer placement is meaningful, transparent, and beneficial for animals, communities, and the environment. The real unsung hero of O2E is Val (Cassie and Tracy’s 85-year-old mum!) who instilled in them a sense of global responsibility from an early age. Learn more about their journey on our About Us page.
We are committed to genuine animal welfare and conservation. O2E adheres to strict ethical standards and a Wildlife Code to ensure all projects serve the best interests of the animals and local communities. Learn more on our O2E Ethical Standards page.
We welcome people from all over the world who are passionate about animal welfare and conservation. Our programs cater to various groups—including gap year travellers, interns, holiday travellers, soul searchers, friends, couples, families, anyone young at heart, and under‑18s (with a guardian’s consent).
O2E offers a wide range of placements including animal care, wildlife rehabilitation, marine conservation, internships, group volunteering, and specialised projects (e.g. cultural education or veterinary placements) in several countries.
An internship is a volunteer placement designed to help you develop specific skills and gain practical work experience in fields like conservation or animal care. It often involves working on a special project and may be eligible for academic credit.
Absolutely! You do not need to be a certified diver to participate in all of our marine conservation projects. Our placements offer non-diving roles so you can contribute effectively even if you’re not a diver. You can also take a dive course as part of your marine conservation program if you wish.
Not necessarily. Most projects are conducted in English, though having some local language skills can help. We also provide language tips and support to assist with effective communication.
The types of animals you encounter will depend on the specific project. Some placements care for rescued or rehabilitating wildlife, while others offer the chance to observe animals in the wild.
Because we work with real animals in real-time situations, the species in care can vary. Injuries, rescues, and admissions often follow seasonal patterns. Something we neither control nor manipulate. We believe in supporting what’s genuinely needed, not manufacturing an experience.
For a more accurate idea of what to expect, feel free to email us at [email protected].
Every project offers unique rewards, so the best program depends on your interests, skills, and goals. Many volunteers rave about our award-winning marine conservation project for its hands-on experience and life-changing impact, while others prefer wildlife care programs.
We encourage you to explore all our options to find your perfect fit and if you’re not sure where to start, we’ve got something that can help: Follow us on Instagram (@oceans2earthvolunteers) and send us a DM with the word “Guide” to get your free copy of our Ethical Volunteering Workbook.
It’ll walk you through how to choose a project that truly aligns with your values and helps you make an impact for the right reasons.
Our orangutan program with in Borneo is seasonal. We run this program our partner during the months that offer optimal conditions for both the animals and volunteers, ensuring the best possible experience and conservation outcomes.
Simply browse our available projects, click “Book Now,” and complete the online application form. A deposit of $495 is required to secure your placement.
Once your application and deposit are received, we confirm your placement and send you an Information Pack with details on travel planning, visa and vaccination advice, packing lists, and project-specific information.
Costs vary by project. Generally, you pay a non‑refundable deposit (typically $495) plus the remaining balance, which covers accommodation, meals, local transportation, and project support.
Most volunteers find our programs to be a cost-effective way to travel with purpose, as your fee goes directly toward supporting ethical conservation work while covering your essential in-country expenses.
We recommend applying several months in advance to secure your preferred project and allow ample time for travel arrangements, visa applications, and other preparations.
Yes, you can request changes to your application. A small change fee may apply. Please contact our team as soon as possible if you need to update your details or switch projects.
You can also upgrade your accommodation or add day trips or activities if they are available. Check the website or your booking portal for more information.
You can add multiple projects to your trip by adding a new booking using the same email address. All trips will show in your Trip Portal. Since each project has limited spaces, we suggest discussing your options with our team to determine which projects best match your skills and interests. Feel free to email [email protected] anytime for help.
Each project page provides a breakdown of costs for transparency, covering aspects such as accommodation, meals, transportation, and project support. We can also send you a Fee Transparency Report if you email us.
Yes, you are welcome to fundraise to help cover your trip expenses. You can set up your own fundraising page right in your booking portal. Download the instructions here.
Many volunteers raise funds through personal networks or online platforms. If you need advice or guidelines on fundraising, Go Fund Me is a great place to start.
Occasionally we run promotional offers; however, as a charity organisation, we generally do not have the ability to offer regular discounts. The best way to hear about these is to follow us or subscribe to our mailing list.
Volunteers must obtain comprehensive travel and cancellation insurance covering medical expenses, repatriation, and any project-specific risks. Please note that Australian volunteers undertaking projects in Australia may already be covered under Medicare and local ambulance services.
You are responsible for obtaining the correct passport and visa for your destination. We provide basic advice, but please check with the relevant embassy or consulate for precise requirements and allow plenty of time for processing.
Your project information guide—sent after your deposit is paid—details all travel arrangements, including whether an airport or hotel transfer is provided or if you need to arrange your own transport.
Yes, swimming in the ocean is generally safe when you follow local guidelines and heed any safety advisories from your project team. Always check local weather and water conditions before swimming.
Cairns is located in tropical Queensland and experiences a cyclone season (typically November to April). While cyclones can occur, our projects are scheduled with local weather patterns in mind, and we work closely with local authorities to ensure volunteer safety.
The optimal season depends on your chosen project and destination. For example, tropical areas like Cairns are usually best during the dry season, while other projects may align with specific wildlife cycles or conservation needs. Check the project page for seasonal details and consult our team for advice.
Accommodation arrangements vary by project. Most placements include accommodation, which is detailed in the project information and further explained in the comprehensive information guide you receive after your deposit is paid.
If a project requires vaccinations, it will be clearly stated on the project page. These requirements are generally in place due to country entry conditions or to protect both the animals and you.
Yes. Certain projects accept volunteers under 18 (17 years only) provided a legal guardian accompanies or consents. Please check the Info for Parents section on our website for specific requirements and conditions.
Not at all! We welcome volunteers of all ages. Our wildlife projects have seen volunteers as old as 85, and our marine conservation projects have included participants over 75. Your life experience and passion for conservation are invaluable.
We welcome volunteers of all abilities and understand that life can present challenges. Please email us at [email protected] to discuss your needs confidentially. We’ll work with you to suggest the most suitable program while ensuring safety and a meaningful experience.
We offer full support before, during, and after your placement. This includes pre-departure guidance, an Information Pack, 24-hour in-country emergency support, and ongoing communication with your project team.
Our Code of Conduct outlines the expected behaviour to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all volunteers, project partners, and animals. It is available on our website.
You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside both international volunteers and local community members, creating a diverse and enriching experience.
Yes, many placements include free time for local sightseeing or scheduled tour days. In some remote projects, free time might simply be spent relaxing on the property. We encourage you to plan additional travel before or after your project to fully explore the region. If you have any questions, just ask!
Absolutely! Upon completion, you can request a certificate of participation or reference that highlights your contributions, which can be a valuable addition to your resume or academic portfolio.
The minimum duration requirement ensures that you have enough time to acclimate, complete essential training, and contribute meaningfully to the project. It also helps build strong relationships with local communities and covers fixed operational costs.
Our cancellation and refund policy is detailed in our Volunteer Terms & Conditions. Generally, once your placement is confirmed, your deposit is non-refundable. Cancelling 90 days or more before your project start date may result in only the deposit being lost; cancelling later may incur a higher charge. Please review the full policy on our website.
Cancellation credits depend on the specific project terms and any applicable insurance. Please refer to our Volunteer Terms & Conditions for complete details.
Still deciding? Browse the programs or read the ethical volunteering vocabulary.
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