URGENT action is needed to manage kangaroo numbers across northern Victoria, according to Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad.
The Nationals MP said a better kangaroo management strategy was needed, as driving on regional roads was now like driving through 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 more than 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 were 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 was likely to be higher as many go unreported.
“In addition, on 3AW recently, V/Line acting chief executive Warwick Horsley confirmed that kangaroo strikes are now a major cause of train disruptions,” Ms Broad said.
“This has led to reduced carriage numbers and delays, frustrating commuters and straining our regional transport system.”
Ms Broad said there was also a significant impact on farmers, who were already battling drought.
“Kangaroos compete directly with livestock for feed and water, and the pressure on agricultural land is growing,” she said.
“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 two 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,” she said.
“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.”
Ms Broad encouraged people to have their say by making a submission and completing a survey for the current parliamentary inquiry into wildlife roadstrike in Victoria.
The survey closes on June 30.
It can be found at www.parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/inquiries/WildlifeRoadstrike/Survey/.
Agriculture Minister Ros Spence was contacted for comment.
