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.
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.
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 team@oceans2earth.org.
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.
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.
Yes, you are welcome to fundraise to help cover your trip expenses. 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.
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 (16 or 17) provided a legal guardian accompanies or consents. Please check the “Under 18s” section on our website for specific requirements and conditions.
We welcome volunteers of all abilities and understand that life can present challenges. Please email us at team@oceans2earth.org to discuss your needs confidentially. We’ll work with you to suggest the most suitable program while ensuring safety and a meaningful experience.
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.
