Car theft reaches 10 year high, security check essential says RACV

RACV is encouraging Victorians to keep vehicle security top of mind with the latest Victorian Crime Statistics Data revealing car theft levels in Victoria are at a ten-year high. 

Car thefts are up by almost 25 per cent, with more than 23,248 thefts or attempted thefts of motor vehicles recorded across Victoria in the 12 months to June 2024 – a 4,500 offence increase in twelve months.

Items stolen from inside vehicles increased by 17.2 per cent with 9,000 offences.

RACV General Manager Motoring Products Jeff Ames said it’s essential for all Victorians to complete a car security check, as the statistics were showing it’s far too easy for thieves to access valuables in a car, and to steal the car itself.

“Opportunistic thieves will break into or enter a car and take possessions that are easily visible from outside the vehicle, often using the opportunity to steal the car itself,” Mr Ames said.

“It’s crucial to protect your vehicle, including when it’s parked at home, in the street or even in secure carparks. If your car is parked at home in a driveway, this doesn’t mean it’s completely safe either – don’t forget to lock the doors, wind up windows and ensure nothing valuable is in plain sight.

“Number plates rank as one of the top items stolen from cars which can then be fitted onto stolen vehicles and used to commit crimes including ram raids, fuel theft, and burglaries, plus the cost impacts and inconvenience to the car owner.”

Attempted theft alone also showed a spike of 43 per cent with 2,760 offences.

RACV suggests the following car security check:

1.     Install anti-theft screws on all number plates – visit a Neighbourhood Watch’s Safe Plate event.

2.     Remove valuables from vehicles.

3.     Always lock your car.

4.     Use secure parking if possible, like a locked garage or park behind a locked gate.

5.     Review and update your car insurance if required, to ensure you’re covered.

For more information about how to minimise the risk of vehicle theft, visit racv.com.au or nhw.com.au.