Rahul Somvanshi
New technology trials will soon launch across New South Wales to protect wildlife and improve driver safety. The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its $500,000 election promise to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions through innovative solutions.
Road engineers, safety experts, and wildlife specialists are collaborating on two key trials starting in April:
The first trial will test light-colored pavement markings at the Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre in Cudal. These markings aim to make wildlife more visible to drivers at various speeds.
The second involves AI-assisted animal detection systems linked to “smart” roadside signs. At a Transport facility in Western Sydney, AI cameras will be trained to identify common wildlife like kangaroos, koalas, and wombats. When animals are detected, the smart signs will warn drivers in real-time.
“Wildlife vehicle strike is a serious road safety issue, as well as impacting badly on our native fauna,” said Minister for Roads John Graham. “We have committed to do more and I’m pleased that we’re making progress.”
Additional Wildlife Protection Measures
Beyond these trials, Transport for NSW is implementing other safety initiatives:
New road markings are being added to highlight koala hotspots along Appin Road between Rosemeadow and Appin township. These markings will feature a koala outline and the word “slow” to alert drivers of active koala colonies.
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One-way koala escape doors have been installed along the Hume Highway near Wilton, at Nepean Bridge and Moolgun Creek Bridge. These doors allow koalas to exit road corridors safely but prevent them from re-entering traffic areas. More doors will be installed on Appin Road near Gilead and in southwest Sydney next year.
Wildlife Impact Data
According to BioNet data from 2013-2024, kangaroos are the most frequently reported mammals involved in vehicle strikes across NSW, followed by wallabies, wombats, and possums. Koalas have the highest number of reported vehicle strikes among all threatened species.
Member for Campbelltown Greg Warren acknowledged the challenges of protecting koalas along busy transport corridors: “Appin Road is a key east-west transport corridor with growing communities along it, which creates a real challenge for protecting a healthy and active koala population.”
With over 220,000 kilometers of public roads in NSW, Transport for NSW is working with all levels of government, experts, and community groups to reduce wildlife vehicle strikes and enhance habitat connectivity.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison emphasized the importance of these initiatives: “Wildlife vehicle strikes represent a significant road safety issue and pose a threat to our native fauna, which is why the Minns Labor Government is committed to implementing effective mitigation strategies.”
A 2024 Wildlife Symposium brought together experts from Australia and worldwide to develop solutions. The symposium outcomes and government responses are available in the Future Directions Paper.
