URGENT action is needed to manage increasing kangaroo populations across northern Victoria, with rising numbers contributing to a spike in vehicle crashes, train disruptions and damage to farmland.

The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, raised the issue in Parliament last week, submitting questions to the Minister for Environment regarding the state’s Authority to Control Wildlife (ATCW) system amid concerns the number of permits being granted was declining despite the escalating kangaroo population.

“Kangaroo numbers have exploded across our region, and communities are bearing the brunt of it,” Ms Cleeland said.

“People driving on rural roads are genuinely frightened.

"In the early morning or around dusk, it feels like a kangaroo could jump in front of you at any moment.”

Recent surveys estimate there are more than 2.4 million kangaroos across Victoria.

But Ms Cleeland said the true impact goes beyond population data.

“Motorists are at serious risk, and kangaroo collisions are now one of the most common wildlife-related hazards on our roads,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Motorcyclists in particular are vulnerable, and the outcomes of these crashes can be tragic.

“Despite this, the tools available to manage local kangaroo populations are outdated and difficult to navigate.”

The strain is not only on roads.

Kangaroo strikes have become a major cause of disruption to regional train services, with V/Line recently confirming that collisions are reducing carriage availability and causing regular delays.

“Our regional transport network is being affected, our roads are less safe, and our farmers are watching as kangaroos compete directly with livestock for scarce feed and water,” Ms Cleeland said.

“With drought already pushing farm operations to the brink, the added pressure from unchecked wildlife populations is unacceptable.”

Ms Cleeland also criticised the government’s limited funding commitment to kangaroo harvesting, with just $200,000 allocated in the state budget for next year.

“That amount of funding shows how little the government is prioritising this issue.

"We need real investment in population control and sustainable harvesting,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Kangaroo meat and leather are valuable products with global demand.

"Expanding the market not only helps manage numbers, it also creates economic opportunities for rural communities.”

Ms Cleeland urged residents to share their experiences and have a say in the current parliamentary inquiry into wildlife roadstrike in Victoria.

The public survey closes on June 30.