The purpose of Animal Instincts Australia is to empower at-risk and neurodivergent young people through inclusive, rural-based, land and animal-assisted learning programs. Operating as a social enterprise, we reinvest 100% of our profits into initiatives that build confidence, life skills, and employability for youth who often miss out on traditional supports like NDIS.
Our programs, delivered on a 103-acre property in regional Queensland, use animal care, rural trades, and hands-on mentoring to support mental health, foster positive relationships, and promote work-readiness.
By creating meaningful, real-world opportunities for young people aged 10–25, we aim to reduce youth disengagement, strengthen community connections, and break cycles of disadvantage - especially in rural areas where services are limited and the need is great.
Our programs, delivered on a 103-acre property in regional Queensland, use animal care, rural trades, and hands-on mentoring to support mental health, foster positive relationships, and promote work-readiness.
By creating meaningful, real-world opportunities for young people aged 10–25, we aim to reduce youth disengagement, strengthen community connections, and break cycles of disadvantage - especially in rural areas where services are limited and the need is great.
Animal Instincts Australia offers a number of hands-on, farm-based youth programs that build confidence, resilience, and real-life skills in a supportive rural environment. These programs are delivered through Outback Instincts, our non-profit charity arm (Registered ACNC Charity)
Youth in the Yards – Cattle Show Team
Young people learn teamwork, responsibility, and rural skills through cattle showing and handling—preparing animals for local shows while building confidence and connection to agricultural life.
Equine Elevate – Horsemanship & Horse Archery Team
This horsemanship-based leadership program combines groundwork, riding, and horse archery to foster trust, communication, and personal growth. Participants also showcase their skills at community events.
Paws on the Ground – Therapy & Working Dog Program
Participants work with dogs in sheepdog training and therapy dog visits, developing empathy, responsibility, and purpose while making meaningful contributions to the community.
The Paddock Project – Everyday Skills, the Outback Way
This hands-on, outdoor learning program builds literacy, numeracy, and life skills through real-world tasks like animal care, gardening, and basic construction—all in a relaxed, supportive environment.
In addition to these four flagship programs, AIA offers flexible, skills-based and therapeutic programs tailored to young people's interests. From vocational training in rural trades to workshops on leadership and wellbeing, every activity supports emotional, social, and practical growth through our holistic, farm-based approach.
Animal Instincts Australia is a program delivery provider for Outback Instincts but also runs its own youth programs that are supported by private payers, NDIS participants, and other funding sources. Through these programs, AIA delivers inclusive, animal-assisted experiences that support wellbeing, connection, and personal growth for young people across the Darling Downs region.