According to the Wildlife Act 1975 it is against the law to cull or control native animals, including kangaroos. The only time a landowner can control kangaroos is if an Authority to Control Wildlife has been issued by the Department of Energy, Environment & Climate Action. These are only granted if kangaroos are seriously impacting the landowners’ livelihood.
It is strongly advised that you pursue non-direct methods first to control kangaroo numbers on your property. If these have proven to be ineffective, you can then explore more direct options.
Non-direct methods
- Excluding the animal from the affected area, for example through the use of fencing and netting. This method is humane and non-invasive. It is important to ensure that the fencing or netting is appropriately installed so that it does not become a hazard.
- Modifying habitat to alter the animals’ behaviour, for example by planting more trees which restricts pasture or water supply.
- Ensuring grain storage is secure.
Direct methods
- Dispersing, trapping, sterilising or culling.
These actions cannot be undertaken without an Authority to Control Wildlife issued by the Department of Energy, Environment & Climate Action.
Removal and relocation of the kangaroo/s is strongly discouraged, as it can cause distress and possible death.
Culling wildlife without the appropriate authorisation, or breaching controls set under the Authority to Control Wildlife system is seen as a serious offence and can result in penalties of up to $5,000 and/or up to six months imprisonment.
New control methods
Recent research has found that dingo scented gels and sprays repel kangaroos. The gels and sprays are infused with dingo urine, which has a strong odour. The chemicals in the odour acts as a repellent, indicating that there is a predator in the area.
Early tests of the product have shown that the product stopped kangaroos entering a rose garden for up to 31 days. This new method is seen as a humane method for property owners to deal with kangaroo problems.
If you have any questions about control of kangaroo populations, please direct them to the Department of Energy, Environment & Climate Action on 13 61 86 or call Wildlife Victoria on 1300 094 535.