Man punches kanagroo

There's controversy over the actions of a zoo employee who punched a kangaroo.

Greig Tonkins, an employee at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, ran towards an aggressive marsupial that had his dog in a headlock.

After freeing the dog, Mr Tonkins squares up the kangaroo and punches it in the face.

This has led to a number of complaints from animal welfare groups.

However, this employers say he's a valued member of staff and there is no question of him losing his job.