This World Kangaroo Day, the Australian Wild Game Industry Council (AWGIC) is spotlighting the benefits of sustainably managing Australia’s overabundant kangaroo population. With over 40 million kangaroos across Australia, sustainable management is essential for preserving biodiversity, reducing waste, and supporting animal welfare.
Only around 4% of a few abundant kangaroo species are harvested each year, with strict oversight to ensure responsible industry practices. AWGIC President Ray Borda emphasises the role kangaroos play in Australia’s ecosystem and culture.
“Kangaroo numbers must be managed to ensure their survival, and the commercial industry allows us to do this sustainably and humanely,” said Mr. Borda.
He notes that, especially during population surges, kangaroos compete for resources, impacting agriculture and native flora.
The commercial kangaroo industry produces lean meat and durable leather, harvested from kangaroos grazing naturally in the bush. Without commercial harvesting, population control would rely on non-commercial culling, which has poorer welfare outcomes. Supported by ecologists, AWGIC highlights that kangaroos have a lower environmental impact compared to traditional livestock.
The $200 million industry supports over 3,000 jobs in regional and Indigenous communities, with rigorous national codes of practice ensuring humane, traceable production, and prioritising animal welfare.
Learn more about how the commercial kangaroo industry supports kangaroo conservation.