The problem of vehicle theft
The National Motor Vehicle Theft Council estimates that an auto is stolen in Australia every six minutes, adding up to over 80,000 thefts per year at a cost of nearly $1 billion. That cost is paid collectively by car owners forced to face higher insurance premiums and to pay taxes that support the justice system. While Australia has had one of the highest auto theft rates rates in the Western world for some time, statistics are now being reported that show prevention techniques and security measures are working.
Prevention and recovery statistics
Coordinated efforts by the government and citizens of Australia reduced the number of total vehicles thefts by 8% in 2005. Effectively, this means that there were almost 7000 fewer thefts than in 2004, saving the public an estimated $40 million. Furthermore, the ratio of thefts per registration was practically cut in half over a 3 year period with only 5.4 thefts reported per 1000 registrations while in 2001, the average rate was 10.6/1000. Actual theft reductions vary by state as follows:
- NSW – 12% decrease
- SA – 11% decrease
- QLD – 8% decrease
- WA – 8% decrease
- VIC – 5% decrease
Keeping your vehicle secure
While 74% of vehicles stolen last year were eventually recovered, the best way to avoid becoming a victim is to install a security system on your car. Many car insurers will even offer a premium discount on your insurance policy if you have an eligible security system. With continued efforts on the part of individuals and law enforcement, it is likely that vehicle theft statistics will decrease even further in the forthcoming future.