A community petition advocating for the implementation of virtual fencing in Canberra has gained significant traction, with over 1,300 signatures collected. The initiative, led by Jo Clay, Deputy Leader of the ACT Greens, aims to reduce vehicle collisions with local wildlife, particularly kangaroos and wombats. The petition urges the ACT Government to trial virtual fencing along Erindale Drive, specifically between Farrer Ridge and Wanniassa Hills.
Data from the ACT Government indicates a troubling trend in wildlife collisions. Between July 2024 and June 2025, there were 4,464 ranger callouts related to wildlife incidents, including 621 callouts in June alone. This figure likely underestimates the actual number of collisions, as it only reflects reported incidents.
Jo Clay highlighted the emotional toll of these accidents, stating, “Accidentally hitting wildlife with a car is incredibly distressing—for the animal, the driver, people who witness it, and those who later see the animal on the side of the road.” She emphasized the need for measures that protect both the community and the wildlife that coexist in the area.
Potential Impact of Virtual Fencing
The petition reflects a strong community sentiment that values the natural environment surrounding Canberra. Clay noted, “A virtual fencing trial is the least we can do to help care for our city’s wildlife.” The proposed technology has shown promising results in other regions. For instance, a trial conducted by Eurobodalla Council demonstrated a 90% reduction in kangaroo fatalities along a known hotspot, while a similar trial on Victoria’s Surf Coast reported an 81% reduction in wildlife road collisions over three years.
Virtual fencing employs a non-invasive approach to deter animals from crossing roads. The system consists of roadside devices that emit high-frequency sounds and flashing lights in response to approaching vehicle headlights at night or during low-light conditions. This method is designed to alert and deter wildlife, particularly kangaroos, without harming them or obstructing their natural movements.
Voices of Concern from the Community
Lead petitioner Aisha Bottrill shared a personal story to highlight the urgency of the trial. “Just the other week, I had to stop and wait with an injured female kangaroo on Erindale Drive who sadly also lost her joey as they were flung from the pouch and hit by a car,” she recounted. “Since then, there have been many more dead kangaroos on this road. This is why we so urgently need a virtual fencing trial here in Canberra.”
Wildlife carers have echoed the call for such measures. They have noted a decrease in callouts in areas where virtual fencing has been implemented, further supporting the argument for its broader adoption. “They know it works and can see firsthand the impact it has on reducing collisions,” Bottrill added.
As Canberra grapples with the challenge of managing wildlife in urban settings, the push for virtual fencing represents a proactive step towards enhancing road safety for both residents and the local fauna. The petition serves as a clear indication that many Canberrans are eager to see action taken to protect their unique wildlife and improve the safety of their roads.
