Victoria Police have released new statistics on car-related crimes, showing vehicle theft in the state has surged approximately 48% since January 2025!
Car theft remains a significant issue in Australia, with statistics indicating a troubling rise in incidents nationwide. As we delve into the car theft landscape of 2024, it becomes evident that urban and rural areas are grappling with this crime, affecting vehicle owners and raising broader concerns about public safety and crime prevention. Understanding the factors contributing to this increase, such as the evolving tactics of thieves and the impact of technology on vehicle security, is crucial for developing effective strategies to combat car theft. This blog will explore the latest statistics, trends, and preventative measures to safeguard their vehicles in an increasingly challenging environment.
One of the most alarming aspects of the current car theft landscape is the shift in the demographics of offenders. Recent studies indicate that more car thefts are committed by organised crime groups rather than opportunistic thieves. These groups often employ sophisticated methods, including using technology to bypass security systems, making it increasingly difficult for law enforcement to track and apprehend them. Furthermore, the rise of social media platforms has facilitated the sharing of techniques and tips among criminals, who have organised a more coordinated approach to car theft. This evolution in criminal behaviour underscores the need for vehicle owners to stay informed about the latest security technologies and to adopt a proactive stance in protecting their assets.
In addition to the rise in organised crime involvement, youth crime has also shown a notable increase in car thefts among younger offenders. Many of these individuals are driven by a desire for thrill-seeking or peer influence, often stealing vehicles for joyrides or to impress their friends. This trend has raised concerns among community leaders and law enforcement, who are now focusing on prevention strategies targeting at-risk youth. Programs aimed at educating young people about the consequences of car theft and providing them with positive alternatives and engagement opportunities are being implemented in various regions. By addressing the root causes of youth involvement in car theft, communities hope to reduce the overall incidence of this crime and foster a sense of responsibility among the younger generation.
In 2024, car theft statistics in Australia revealed a concerning trend, with increased incidents reported across major cities, Melbourne being the most active in crime rates. According to the latest data from the Australian Institute of Criminology, urban areas such as Sydney and Melbourne have seen a rise in thefts attributed to increased vehicle value and the sophistication of criminal networks. Additionally, the rise of keyless entry systems has made specific models more vulnerable to theft, prompting law enforcement agencies to warn vehicle owners about the importance of securing their cars. As a result, many Australians are now investing in advanced security measures, including GPS tracking devices and steering wheel locks, to protect their vehicles from potential theft.
IT’S ALL ABOUT SAFETY.
To address the rise in car theft, the Queensland government initiated several innovative programs to enhance vehicle security and deter potential offenders. One notable initiative is the introduction of an immobiliser trial in Far North Queensland (FNQ), of the effectiveness of these devices immobilising car theft. Early results from this trial have been successful in theft incidents among vehicles equipped with immobilisers. This approach aligns with successful strategies implemented in other countries, where insurance companies have finally supported and recognised immobilisation as a critical factor in reducing vehicle crime rates. By investing in such preventative measures, vehicle owners will enhance security and foster a safer community.
WHAT ARE OUR INSURANCE COMPANIES DOING, TO BE PRO ACTIVE?
Many mainstream auto insurers already reduce premiums when a car is equipped with proven anti-theft technology or participates in security programs.
Examples include: – United States: State Farm, Progressive, GEICO, Allstate, USAA, Nationwide, Travelers, Liberty Mutual, Farmers (anti-theft device discounts; telematics programs; discounts for OEM systems like OnStar/LoJack).
– Canada: Intact, belairdirect, Desjardins, TD Insurance, Aviva Canada, Allstate Canada, Economical/Definity, CAA Insurance (anti-theft discounts; in high-theft regions, some carriers offer subsidies or preferred pricing for approved trackers).
– United Kingdom: Aviva, Direct Line, Admiral, LV=, Churchill/Hastings (discounts tied to Thatcham‑approved alarms/immobilisers; tracker requirements/discounts for high‑value cars; “black box” policies).
– Australia/New Zealand: NRMA, AAMI, RACV, RACQ, Suncorp brands, AA Insurance NZ (anti-theft device discounts; tracker requirements for specific vehicles). – Availability, size of discount, and eligible devices vary by country, insurer, vehicle model, and theft risk in your area.
Ask specifically about anti-theft device discounts, tracker/immobiliser credits, Thatcham S5/S7 tracker recognition (UK), and telematics/connected‑car discounts.
Why proactive insurers do this – Lower losses: Effective security reduces theft frequency and claim severity, enhancing loss ratios and reinsurance costs. – Fairer pricing: Encourages risk-appropriate premiums instead of broad increases in high‑theft areas. – Customer retention and growth: Security incentives build trust and reduce shopping and churn. – Regulatory and reputational pressure: Shows action on affordability and crime prevention. – Better data: Telematics and device verification improve risk segmentation and fraud detection. – Social impact: Reduced theft benefits communities and speeds up claim resolutions. What insurers should do to help stop car theft
1) Incentivise thepropert protections – Offer meaningful premium credits (and occasional subsidies) for: – Factory or Thatcham‑approved alarms/immobilisers. – S5/S7 trackers or OEM connected “stolen vehicle assist.” – OBD‑port locks and steering‑wheel locks on targeted models. – Secure parking (garage, monitored facility) and catalytic‑converter shields/VIN etching. – Reduce deductibles or provide claim‑forgiveness when approved security measures are installed and used.
2) Require fixes and verify adoption – Maintain VIN‑level lists of vulnerable models (e.g., keyless/relay‑attack targets), notify owners, and: – Require available OEM software/security updates for coverage continuity or to unlock discounts.
– For high‑risk vehicles/areas, mandate a certified tracker or immobiliser as a condition of theft coverage. – Verify installation through photos, invoices, or API integrations with approved providers.
3) Use data and partnerships – Partner with automakers, telematics firms, and recovery services (e.g., LoJack, OEM remote immobilisation) to speed recovery and deter theft. – Share anonymised data with industry bodies and law enforcement (NICB/IBC/IFB, police task forces) to disrupt organised rings. – Build geospatial theft‑risk models and send customers timely alerts and prevention tips based on location.
4) Improve claims and fraud defenses – Fast‑track total theft claims when security requirements are met and police reports are filed. – Use link analysis/AI to detect staged or organised fraud; tighten salvage/title and export checks with ports and auction houses.
5) Educate and equip customers – Run simple, recurring campaigns on: – Keyless/relay‑attack prevention (Faraday pouches, key storage). – Nighttime parking choices, camera coverage, and device placement. – How to enable OEM theft‑assist features and register trackers with police databases. – Provide or co‑fund basic deterrents for the most-targeted makes/models in hotspots.
6) Advocate for stronger standards – Support mandates for immobilisers and secure digital keys, improved OBD access security, parts marking, and stricter penalties for fencing/export. – Encourage manufacturers to make theft‑prevention updates free and easy to implement. If you tell me your country and vehicle, I can direct you to the most relevant insurers, the exact discounts/devices they recognise right now.
