Vehicle theft is on the rise, prompting the RACV to alert motorists to be on their guard.
More than 21,400 thefts or attempted thefts were recorded in Victoria between March 2023 – March 2024.
This is a 22 per cent increase – nearly 4,000 more than the previous 12 months.
“If the opportunity presents, thieves will break into a car and take possessions that are easily visible from outside the vehicle, often using the opportunity to steal the car itself,” RACV Motoring Products General Manager Jeff Ames said.
“That why it’s crucial to protect your vehicle, even when it’s parked at home.”
More than 59,000 incidents of items stolen from vehicles were recorded in the aforementioned period. This was also an increase of about 18.6 per cent (10,000 offences).
“Unfortunately, just because your car is parked at home in a driveway doesn’t mean it’s completely safe so don’t forgot to lock the doors, wind up windows, and ensure nothing valuable is in plain sight,” Mr Ames said.
“Number plates rank as one of the top items stolen from cars. These plates are then fitted onto stolen vehicles and used to commit crimes including ram raids, fuel theft, and burglaries.”
The RACV has outlined the below tips for all vehicle owners to try and keep their cars – and prized possessions – safe.
Top tips:
- Secure your number plates: To protect your car from number plate theft, install anti-theft screws (also called safe plate screws, one-way screws or security screws). These screws can’t be easily removed and can be fitted at one of Neighbourhood Watch’s Safe Plate events across Victoria.
- Remove your valuables: Leaving valuable items like mobile phones, dashcams and other car accessories in plain sight increases the likelihood of theft.
- Lock your car: Always remember to secure your vehicle and take your keys with you whenever you leave, and don’t neglect locking the car’s rear doors and windows as these are frequently targeted by thieves for vehicle entry.
- Park in a locked garage or behind a locked gate if you can: This takes away the opportunity for an offender to quickly jump in and steal the car from a driveway or carport. Consider installing sensor lights and security cameras, ensuring garage access points are highly visible, and never let an unfamiliar car follow you into a communal garage.
- Check your insurance: Car insurance may cover you in the event of theft from your car, so it is important to make sure your insurance is up to date and to check that you’re adequately covered by looking through the product disclosure statement