Kangaroos and Wallabies

While kangaroos and wallabies, particularly the Eastern Grey Kangaroo, are some of Australia's most recognisable and well known native animals are an important part of Victoria's natural ecosystems.

They play an important role in promoting regeneration of native plants and reducing the fuel load in forests and grasslands and are a protected species. They graze on grass and other vegetation including watered lawns and sports fields which are attractive when their normal grazing areas and water sources have dried up.

Kangaroos generally rest during the day in shaded areas and feed from early dusk until mid-morning.

Being Safe around Kangaroos and Wallabies

Kangaroos are mostly docile but can be unpredictable when they feel threatened.

Note: If you see kangaroos or wallabies loose in residential areas call Wildlife Victoria on 8400 7300 immediately.

Safety Tips when you see Kangaroos and Wallabies

Do NOT:

Walk directly towards a kangaroo
Stand up tall, stare or hold your arms out towards a kangaroo
Go near kangaroos engaged in courtship or mating behaviour – for example, males sniffing, touching or moving around with females
Go near male kangaroos that are sparring, fighting or showing off their size and strength to each other
Go near a kangaroo that is growling or clucking
Move between a female and her joey
Allow your dog to approach a kangaroo. Kangaroos will vigorously defend themselves against dogs, and this may draw you into a dangerous situation. Keep pet dogs on a lead if kangaroos are present. Dogs have been badly injured when chasing kangaroos. Penalties apply for having your dog off lead and for an attacking a kangaroo. To report dogs chasing or harassing kangaroos call Council on 9262 6333 or the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action on 136 186.

Sick, Injured or Abused Wildlife

Kangaroo and Wallaby Road Safety

Where possible, kangaroo signs have been erected to help drivers to adhere to road safety standards and guidelines. In the area between suburbia and rural areas, kangaroos and people will need to co-exist and people need to take care in these areas.

If you come across a dead kangaroo or wallaby on the side of the road that has been spray painted, it means that a wildlife rescuer has checked the pouch for joeys.

How to Stay Safe on the Road with Kangaroos and Wallabies

Be aware that kangaroos may cross roads at any time. Take particular care at dusk and dawn when kangaroos are active and lighting is poor
Be alert - look out for wildlife feeding near the roadside
Never sound your horn when you see kangaroos grazing and dip your high beam lights to avoid startling the animals
If you have an accident with a kangaroo and the kangaroo is injured, call Wildlife Victoria on 03 8400 7300 or report the accident directly on their website
If a kangaroo or wallaby is on a busy road and is causing a traffic hazard, call 000.

Controlling Kangaroos and Wallabies

Kangaroos on a Sports Ground or Park

Council is aware of kangaroos frequenting some parks and sport fields where there is plenty of grass to feed on. The safety of the children and other sports field users is paramount, please do not approach any kangaroos.

To report kangaroos in parks or on sports fields, contact Council on 9262 6333.

Relocating a Kangaroo or Wallaby

Relocating kangaroos or wallabies is difficult because they need to be sedated and they may not stay in their new location and may try to return to where they were moved from. If they are trying to get back where they came from, they may have to cross roads and may be hit by a car or truck.

Kangaroo-Proof Fences

Fencing every reserve or park to contain kangaroos or wallabies is not practical. In areas that have fenced them in, they have continued to breed and then slowly starved during drought.

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