URGENT action is needed to manage kangaroo numbers across northern Victoria, amid increasing vehicle crashes, train strikes and damage to farms.
According to Northern Victoria MP Gaelle Broad, a better kangaroo management strategy is needed with driving on regional roads now like navigating a minefield.
“Aerial and ground surveys were undertaken last year to estimate the kangaroo population across Victoria. The data, which excludes some areas, shows that there are over 2.4 million kangaroos, and nearly 500,000 in the Loddon–Mallee area,” Ms Broad said.
“Kangaroo-related vehicle collisions are the most common wildlife hazards on our roads. These incidents are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, who are over-represented in fatal crashes.
“For anyone who drives on regional roads, especially in the early morning or after 5pm, it is like driving through a minefield. You do not know when a kangaroo will jump into your headlights, and the consequences can be devastating.”
Ms Broad said the most reliable statistics on accidents involving kangaroos are from insurance companies and wildlife rescue teams. The RACV and Wildlife Victoria reported last year that there were nearly 10,000 collisions, but the real number is likely to be higher as many go unreported.
“Recently V/Line acting CEO Warwick Horsley confirmed that kangaroo strikes are now a major cause of train disruptions. This has led to reduced carriage numbers and delays, frustrating commuters and straining our regional transport system.
“There is also a significant impact on our farmers, who are already battling drought. Kangaroos compete directly with livestock for feed and water, and the pressure on agricultural land is growing. The current management tools are slow, bureaucratic and often ineffective.
“I have spoken with local residents who say the authority to control wildlife program is flawed and the kangaroo harvesting program should be expanded. While Victoria grapples with over 2 million kangaroos, only $200,000 has been allocated in the budget for kangaroo harvesting next year.”
Ms Broad said the Government should expand the market for kangaroo leather and meat.
“Sustainable harvesting provides a way to manage kangaroo numbers while also unlocking a valuable source of leather and meat. Kangaroo leather is renowned for its strength, lightness and durability. It is widely used in footwear, gloves and sporting goods, where strong, lightweight leather is important.
“Our communities are doing their best to coexist with native wildlife, but it is time for a more balanced and proactive approach that prioritises community safety. Labor cannot manage our kangaroo problem and regional Victorians are paying the price.”
Earlier this year, the Victorian Farmers’ Federation pushed for higher kangaroo harvest quotas in requests to the State Government for drought support measures.
That call came weeks after Newbridge professional shooter Glen Cole said there should be a lift in roo harvest numbers to help disaster-hit land recover earlier.