Wildlife roadstrike in Victoria is one of the most pressing threats to native species and a major cause of distress for motorists, wildlife rescuers and communities. The current approach to wildlife roadstrike under the Wildlife Act 1975 is fragmented, underfunded, inconsistent, and fails to reflect contemporary scientific understanding of animal welfare.
Wildlife Victoria made a formal submission to the Parliamentary Inquiry into wildlife roadstrike in Victoria and presented evidence at an Inquiry hearing in Geelong. A number of the recommendations from our submission – such as the incorporation of wildlife considerations into urban development and commitment to cross-agency coordination – were reflected in the findings of the final report tabled by the parliamentary committee. Wildlife Victoria continues to call for increased investment in infrastructure and planning measures that improve outcomes for wildlife and enhance safety for all road users.
The facts
- It is estimated that over 10 million native animals die on Australia’s roads each year
- Between 2018 and 2023, Wildlife Victoria responded to over 50,000 reports of wildlife injured or killed on Victoria’s roads
- In addition to its devastating impact on native animals, wildlife-vehicle collisions take a toll on veterinarians, veterinary nurses, wildlife rescue volunteers, drivers directly involved in collisions, and community members who witness these traumatic incidents
Key actions
November 2025 – Parliamentary Committee Report tabled in Parliament
The Wildlife roadstrike in Victoria Inquiry report reflected many of the priorities Wildlife Victoria has consistently raised regarding the protection of native wildlife and the safety of Victorian motorists. The report clearly demonstrated that wildlife roadstrike is a serious issue, and we welcomed the strong direction it provides for government action.
May 2025 – Wildlife Victoria makes submission to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Wildlife Roadstrike
The Parliamentary Inquiry into wildlife roadstrike received 467 submissions, including 165 submissions by Wildlife Victoria volunteers. Wildlife Victoria’s CEO presented as a witness at the Inquiry on 20 August 2025 in Geelong.
Read Wildlife Victoria’s submission to the Parliamentary Inquiry into wildlife roadstrike in Victoria