How quotas are set
To ensure sustainable kangaroo populations, the Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research (ARI) recommends that no more than 10 per cent of Victoria’s kangaroo population should be controlled each year across both the Kangaroo Harvesting Program (KHP) and the Authority to Control Wildlife (ATCW) system.
The quota for each harvest zone is set by:
- using the kangaroo population estimates from the most recent kangaroo survey to determine the recommended maximum level of control. In Victoria, we set this at no more than 10 per cent of the population
- estimated level of kangaroo control through ATCW permits and then;
- deducting the estimated ATCWs from the maximum recommended level of take.
The difference between the recommended maximum level of control, and the estimated ATCW levels is assigned to the KHP as quota.
The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) regularly survey Victoria's kangaroo population and use that information to set annual quotas for the KHP. More information on Victorias kangaroo population surveys can be found at Victorian kangaroo surveys and population estimates.
2026 quota
The table below outlines the commercial quota available for each Harvest Zone. Further information is available in the Quota Determination below.
| Harvest Zone | Eastern Grey quota | Western Grey quota |
|---|---|---|
Barwon South West | 12,850 | 750 |
Gippsland | 10,400 | 0 |
Grampians | 10,350 | 10,100 |
Hume | 36,050 | 0 |
Loddon Mallee | 14,950 | 0 |
TOTAL | 84,600 | 10,850 |
Please visit the DJSIR Kangaroo Harvesting webpage for more information on applying for quota.
Quota reports
Each year, ARI prepares a Kangaroo Harvest Quotas for Victoria report with recommendations for the following year’s KHP quota. These reports provide information on the science used to calculate quotas.
ARI reports and other information can be found below.
More information
Landholders can apply to the Conservation Regulator for an ATCW permit to control kangaroos. Unlike the KHP, carcasses in the ATCW system cannot be sold.
If the Conservation Regulator is satisfied that control of the wildlife is necessary, an ATCW permit will be issued for a specified period and for a specified number of animals. Each ATCW specifies the species of wildlife that can be controlled and the method of control that can be used.
To ensure the sustainability of kangaroo populations, DEECA regularly monitor the number of kangaroos taken through both systems and can make adjustments to the program if required.
This could include reducing or suspending the KHP quota or suspension of harvest altogether. Any changes to the quota will be updated on this webpage and harvesters will be notified.
Commercial harvesting of kangaroos is relatively new in Victoria, beginning in October 2019.
To ensure the sustainability of our kangaroo populations and monitor the impact of harvesting, the Victorian Government has deliberately taken a conservative approach to the commercial harvesting of kangaroos. Victoria is committed to ensuring that no more than 10 per cent of our kangaroo population is taken annually across both the ATCW system and the KHP.
Our lower harvest quota reflects the cautious approach we are taking as we gain more insight about how Victoria’s kangaroo populations respond to harvesting.
Page last updated: 19/12/25