Sunbury is leading a top 10 list for the source of most kangaroo damage claims from drivers, says the RACV (Royal Automobile Club of Victoria).
The RACV says that from 2021 to June 2025, their insurance business received over 23,000 claims for kangaroo-related damage; 2024 recorded the highest number in a year with 5883 claims.
It says the average amount claimed for a collision with an animal in the 2025 financial year was $8984.
RACV General Manager Insurance and Roadside Bill Bloodworth said collisions with wildlife are common across the state, especially in areas where urban development meets regional roads.
“We do see a pattern of higher claim volumes during the cooler months, particularly from April to August, when kangaroo movement increases and daylight hours are shorter,” Bloodworth says.
“Motorists should slow down, stay alert and scan the roadside – especially at dawn and dusk, when kangaroos are most active.”
SUNBURY TOPS THE LIST
The top 10 list of claims from towns and suburbs for 2021-25:
Sunbury (234 claims), Heathcote (195), Wallan (192), Benalla (182), Bacchus Marsh (179), Bendigo (170), Ballarat (169), Gisborne (164), Woodend (160) and Kyneton (156).
“These (towns and) suburbs reflect a wide geographic spread, showing that kangaroo collisions aren’t limited to rural roads,” Bloodworth says.
“Motorists in outer suburbs and peri-urban areas also need to be cautious.”
The RACV is offering the following tips to avoid animal collisions:
- Be aware of peak times: Kangaroos are most active at dawn, dusk and night.
- Slow down: Reduce speed in areas with wildlife signage or when visibility is poor.
- Scan ahead: Look both sides of the road and the edges of the tree line for movement.
- Avoid swerving: If a collision is unavoidable, brake firmly in a straight line.
- Use high beams: When safe to do so, high beams can help detect animals further ahead.
Bloodworth says that while hitting a kangaroo can be distressing, motorists should prioritise safety.
“If you’re involved in a collision, pull over safely, activate hazard lights and check on passengers. If anyone is injured, call 000.
“If the animal is injured, contact local wildlife services on (03) 8400 7300.”
For more information on what to do if you collide with wildlife, visit racv.com.au.
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