Australia’s Animal Collision Hotspots

Insurance company AAMI has released its latest data highlighting the location of Australia’s animal collision hotspots, and it shows that those living in the nation’s capital should take extra care when driving.

The information on Australia’s Animal Collision Hotspots is particularly pertinent heading into the winter months because, according to the insurer, there is usually a 15 per cent jump in animal strikes between May and August each year.

“Now is the time for drivers to keep their eyes peeled for wildlife crossing roads, and be extra vigilant especially at dawn and dusk when visibility can be difficult, and nocturnal animals are more active,” AAMI’s Head of Motor Claims Anna Cartwright says.

The data on Australia’s Animal Collision Hotspots was compiled from analysis of more than 21,000 animal collision claims in the 12 months between 1 February 2019 and 31 January 2020, and it revealed that Canberra is the country’s most dangerous hotspot. At a state level, New South Wales accounts for almost one third of all animal-related vehicle accidents, closely followed by Victoria.

This winter could be especially bad when it comes to animal strikes after the recent devastating bushfires that have left many native animals displaced.

“As we head into winter, we may see increased activity, particularly from nocturnal wildlife as they cross roads in search of food and water, which we saw after the drought, increasing the likelihood of them being hit,” Kristie Newton from WIRES (NSW Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service) says.

“As native animals come closer to the road to feed, drivers should be extra vigilant especially near water sources like creeks or gullies where thick fog can occur and reduce drivers’ visibility,” Ms Newton warns.

Here is a list of the five animal collision hotspots in each state as ranked by the AAMI data:

New South Wales

1. Dubbo
2. Goulburn
3. Mudgee
4. Cooma
5. Inverell

Victoria

1. Heathcote
2. Gisborne
3. Wallan
4. Sunbury
5. Woodend

Queensland

1. Roma
2. Goondiwindi
3. Moranbah
4. Middlemount
5. St George

Western Australia

1. Baldivis
2. Nannup
3. Busselton
4. Karratha
5. Margaret River

South Australia

1. Port Augusta
2. Mount Gambier
3. Coober Pedy
4. Morgan
5. Whyalla

Tasmania

1. Kingston
2. Launceston
3. Cambridge
4. Hobart
5. George Town

Australian Capital Territory

1. Canberra
2. Kambah
3. Belconnen
4. Hume
5. Symonston

This infographic video shows where the animal collision hotspots are, and it offers some sage advice on how to avoid an animal strike and what to do if you can’t.