The Perth Zoo Docent Association (PZDA) has more than 300 ‘Docents’ who volunteer their time and knowledge to help create a more interesting and worthwhile experience for visitors, as well as helping promote and support Perth Zoo’s efforts in conservation.

Perths Zoo's Vision is simple

A world where diversity of species and habitats are secure.

...and the Zoo's purpose is our purpose

To create a passion for wildlife, inspiring people to act for conservation and save species

The word ‘Docent’ is derived from the Latin word ‘docere’ which means to teach.

As part of the zoo community, Docents are enthusiastic, reliable people who through their expertise and outstanding customer service help achieve the Zoo’s objectives and mission.

Docents work as part of a valuable team, so it is vital we have volunteers who can be depended upon to fulfil their minimum two  days per month. They require a good level of physical fitness as a docent’s duty day involves a lot of walking around the zoo assisting visitors. Ongoing Training is provided and required so that Docents are knowledgeable on a wide range of related topics and issues.

Click Here to see this ‘Today Tonight’ article which
highlights a Day in the life of a Docents 

The PZDA Training Course

Trainee guides are chosen for their people skills, they must be dedicated, outgoing people who enjoy interacting with the public. The Perth Zoo Docent Training course is structured to help people develop the communication skills and knowledge required to conduct walking or driving tours and interact with visitors. The Cost of the 2024 training course is $130 and is required in full by week two of training.

The training course fees cover:
  • 10 Saturdays of training including skills and information sessions, mentoring, and morning teas
  • Access to all reference materials via the member-only website.
  • Presentations from a wide variety of  animal experts
  • On graduation, a PZDA branded Polo shirt, name badge and entry pass. 
  • Your first annual membership to the PZDA

PZDA Information Day

Each year in April, the Docent Association holds a free 2 hour information morning at Perth Zoo to explain the role of Docents (zoo guides) and the duties they perform. The sessions include information and a 45 minute guided tour of Perth Zoo with one of the current Docents.
The next Orientation Information Day will be on Saturday April 12, 2025.

Please contact us for more information and to register your details at any time to  applications@pzda.org.au

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Perth Zoo Docent Association Inc.

20 Labouchere Road, South
Perth WA 6151
Email Address
admin@pzda.org.au