The Code of Practice for Injured and Sick Possums and Gliders (the code) is intended for those authorised to rescue, rehabilitate and release possums and gliders. The code has been developed to ensure the welfare needs of these mammals are met and the conservation benefits stemming from their rehabilitation and release are optimised. It also aims to ensure that risks to the health and safety of volunteers rescuing and caring for these animals are reduced and easily managed.

The code is neither a complete manual on animal husbandry, nor a static document, and must be implemented by a person trained in accordance with the Possum and Glider Rehabilitation Training Standards for the Volunteer Wildlife Rehabilitation Sector.

The code is complemented by Initial Treatment and Care Guidelines for Rescued Possums and Gliders. The purpose of the guidelines is to standardise the management of possums and gliders requiring rescue or rehabilitation, in line with the code. It includes detailed information about the management of these animals following rescue, from capture to physical examination, initial stabilisation and treatment before presentation to a veterinarian.