Car Theft Claims Surge in Queensland and Victoria: What It Means for Drivers (and How to Protect Your Car)

Summary

New analysis from the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) shows a sharp rise in motor vehicle theft claims in parts of the country; particularly Queensland and Victoria. The ICA reports the total value of motor theft claims has almost doubled in real terms since 2015, with claims volumes also climbing. For everyday drivers, that means higher risk and potential impacts on premiums—making proactive, modern theft prevention essential.

The numbers: how bad is it?

• Claims rising fastest in QLD and VIC. The ICA’s latest analysis highlights significant growth in claim frequency in Queensland and metropolitan Victoria. 
• Costs have surged. Adjusted for inflation, the total value of motor theft claims has nearly doubled since 2015 illustrating how thieves, parts shortages and repair inflation are pushing losses higher.
• More claims overall. Nationally, the number of theft claims increased over the same period, underscoring a broader trend rather than isolated spikes. 

Why QLD and VIC are hot spots

• Regional exposure in QLD. The ICA notes strong growth in theft claims across regional areas, reflecting opportunistic theft and increased vehicle mobility across long distances. 
• Tech-enabled crime in VIC. Police and insurers warn that keyless/start systems and OBD exploits make some vehicles more vulnerable, contributing to metropolitan claim growth. 

What this means for your insurance

Insurers price risk based on claims experience. When theft claims rise in frequency and cost, premiums in affected postcodes often follow. Staying ahead with robust theft prevention helps reduce risk and can support a stronger position when discussing cover with your insurer. 

How StealStopper helps prevent modern car theft

Traditional deterrents (like steering wheel locks) do little against relay attacks, key cloning, and OBD reprogramming. StealStopper is a smart immobiliser that acts like two-factor authentication for your car:

• Immobilises even if thieves have your keys. Without your paired phone’s authorisation, the vehicle won’t drive. 
• Automatic arming/disarming. Drive as normal, protection runs in the background. 
• Seamless smartphone control. Arm or disarm from the app, and get peace of mind fast. 

Practical steps to reduce your theft risk today

1. Fit a modern immobiliser (like StealStopper) to block drive-away theft—even with stolen keys. 
2. Strengthen your parking routine: park off-street or in a locked garage, keep keys away from doors/windows, and avoid leaving valuables visible. 
3. Stay software-secure: for vehicles with connected services, keep manufacturer security updates current.
4. Document everything: record VIN, rego, and photos; enable any factory anti-theft features.

The bottom line

Car theft claims are rising in QLD and VIC, and the financial impact has escalated. Don’t wait for premiums, or risk, to catch up. Equip your vehicle with Stealstopper and turn your car into a much harder target.

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