Car Theft in Australia: Recent Trends and How to Protect Your Vehicle in 2025

Car Theft in Australia: A Growing Concern

Car theft remains a pressing issue across Australia, with a vehicle stolen approximately every 11 minutes. In New South Wales alone, 14,516 cars were reported stolen between March 2023 and March 2024, marking a 2.1% increase compared to five years prior (source: carsguide.com.au). Nationally, the Australian Bureau of Statistics estimated that 55,000 households experienced motor vehicle theft in the 2022–23 financial year, with 59% of these incidents occurring at the victim's home (source: abs.gov.au).

Most Stolen Vehicles in Australia

Certain car models are more frequently targeted by thieves. The Holden Commodore VE (2006–2013) has consistently been the most stolen vehicle in Australia (source: comparethemarket.com.au). Other commonly stolen models include the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger PX (2011) (source: housegrail.com).

How Are Cars Being Stolen?

Modern technology has introduced new methods for car thieves. Devices that can intercept and mimic signals from electronic key fobs have led to a significant increase in car thefts, particularly in Victoria (source: theguardian.com). Additionally, thieves are exploiting on-board diagnostic (OBD) ports to override vehicle security systems, especially in models with push-start technology (source: heraldsun.com.au).

Top Tips to Prevent Car Theft

To safeguard your vehicle, consider the following measures:

1. Install Engine Immobilisers: These devices prevent the engine from starting without the correct key. In Queensland, a government initiative offering free engine immobilisers led to a notable decrease in car thefts (source: couriermail.com.au).
2. Use RFID Signal-Blocking Pouches: These pouches prevent thieves from intercepting key fob signals, a common method used in relay attacks (source: apnews.com).
3. Secure Your Keys: Always keep your car keys in a safe place and avoid leaving them near entry points of your home.
4. Install Dash Cams and GPS Trackers: Visible security devices can deter thieves and aid in vehicle recovery if stolen (source: stealstopper.com.au).
5. Park in Secure Areas: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in well-lit, secure locations.
6. Lock Your Vehicle: Always lock your car, even when parked at home or in your garage (source: police.vic.gov.au).

Understanding the Risk

Being aware of the prevalent car theft methods and commonly targeted vehicles can help you take proactive steps to protect your property. By implementing the above measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of car theft.

Sources:

• https://www.carsguide.com.au/car-advice/car-theft-statistics-australia-how-many-vehicles-are-stolen-annually-and-which-model-is 
• https://www.abs.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/majority-car-thefts-happen-home 
• https://www.comparethemarket.com.au/car-insurance/features/most-stolen-car-brands-and-models
• https://housegrail.com/car-theft-statistics-aus
• https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/feb/27/key-reprogamming-devices-used-car-theft-rise-australia-ntwnfb
• https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/geelong/arrests-as-geelong-police-crack-down-on-allegedly-techsavvy-car-thieves
• https://www.couriermail.com.au/truecrimeaustralia/police-courts-qld/engine-immobiliser-scheme-to-be-available-to-all-queenslanders-from-january
• https://apnews.com/article/4c015a9f16b1ff01de6250332a34226e
  
• https://www.police.vic.gov.au/preventing-motor-vehicle-theft