NSW launches AI road wildlife alerts

July 21, 2026

The New South Wales Government has introduced an advanced AI-powered wildlife detection system on a section of the Monaro Highway, aiming to improve road safety and reduce collisions with native animals in one of the state's most dangerous wildlife hotspots.

The new Protective Animal Warning System (PAWS) has been deployed in an area known for frequent animal crossings, where high-speed traffic, poor nighttime visibility, and increased wildlife activity at dawn and dusk significantly raise the risk of accidents.

AI technology detects wildlife in real time

PAWS combines thermal imaging cameras, optical roadside cameras, and an artificial intelligence computer vision platform capable of identifying animals commonly involved in road crashes, including kangaroos, deer, and wombats.

When the system detects wildlife approaching or entering the roadway, it immediately activates electronic warning signs to alert nearby motorists. This real-time notification gives drivers valuable extra seconds to slow down and avoid potential collisions.

Developed using thousands of wildlife images

Transport for NSW designed and refined the technology throughout 2025 by analysing wildlife movement patterns and training the AI model with thousands of animal images.

Extensive testing was carried out at Transport for NSW's Yennora research facility, while additional image collection took place in partnership with Symbio Wildlife Park. The collaboration enabled the AI to recognise multiple species accurately under different weather conditions, lighting environments, and viewing angles.

First roadside trial on the Monaro highway

The Monaro Highway installation represents the first live roadside trial of the PAWS technology. Rather than replacing existing safety measures, the AI system complements wildlife fencing, dedicated animal crossings, and vehicle-activated warning signs already installed along the route.

The pilot project is supported by a $500,000 investment from the NSW Government, dedicated to exploring innovative technologies that can reduce wildlife strikes and improve road safety. The initiative was launched following recommendations made during the 2024 Wildlife Symposium held in Sydney.

Trial to shape future wildlife protection

According to Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison, the trial will evaluate whether artificial intelligence and smart roadside warning systems can make roads safer for drivers while helping protect Australia's native wildlife.

Transport for NSW will closely monitor the system's effectiveness throughout the trial. If successful, the AI-powered wildlife detection technology could be rolled out to additional high-risk roads across New South Wales, offering a smarter approach to preventing wildlife-related crashes and improving driver safety.