Kangaroo-Related Vehicle Claims Surge in South Australia
RAA Insurance has reported a significant increase in claims related to kangaroo-vehicle collisions, with over 2,100 incidents recorded in the past year alone. This represents a 44% rise compared to the same period two years earlier. The insurer’s analysis suggests that the drier-than-usual weather conditions are contributing to the increased roadside activity by kangaroos, as they move closer to populated areas in search of food and water.
Regional Hotspots Identified
The regional town of Mount Gambier has been identified as the location with the highest frequency of kangaroo collision claims, with 64 incidents reported between May 2022 and April 2025. Other areas with notable claim frequencies include:
- Whyalla (57 claims)
- Port Augusta (53 claims)
- Mount Compass (47 claims)
Several other towns, including McLaren Vale, Naracoorte, and Williamstown, each recorded over 40 incidents during the same period. Approximately 77% of kangaroo-related claims came from regional locations, although outer-metropolitan areas are also increasingly affected.
Charles Mountain, RAA’s senior manager of safety and infrastructure, noted the growing prevalence of wildlife encounters. “There is a clear trend that kangaroo collisions are increasing across the state as more animals come towards busy roads in search of food,” he said. Mountain advised drivers not to swerve to avoid animals, as this could lead to more severe incidents. “If you encounter one on the road, brake safely and sound your horn if it’s safe to do so. But do not swerve, as that could cause a more serious crash and put yourself and other road users at greater risk.”
The data from RAA Insurance highlights the broader risk exposure across both regional and peri-urban road networks. This trend is particularly concerning given the already high national road toll in Australia, which exceeds 1,200 fatalities and 40,000 serious injuries annually.
In related news, research from ROLLiN’ Insurance has shown variations in driver safety performance across Australian jurisdictions. South Australia led the nation with a safety score of 90.3 out of 100, based on data from 18 million kilometers of telematics-monitored driving. The research underscores the ongoing need for road safety awareness, particularly in regions with high wildlife activity.
