Theft from motor vehicles

Keeping your car in well lit areas and removing valuable items can reduce its attractiveness to potential criminals.

Theft prevention information

Follow these crime prevention tips to prevent and report theft from your car.

Remove all valuable items

Ensure you remove valuable items from your car before you leave.

• Do not leave any valuables in your vehicles. If you must leave valuables in your car, secure them out of sight in the boot or a locked glove box.
• Remove GPS and dash cam units. Wipe the suction mark off the window.
• Do not leave documents in your car – your address may be used to locate your home and break into your car or home later. Documents might be used to steal your identity.
• Do not leave house keys or garage door openers in your car – they may be used in home burglaries.
• Install anti-theft screws on number plates.

Lock all doors and close all windows

Keep your car secure.

• Install a car alarm.
• Lock your car, even when parking at home or leaving your car for a moment.
• Close all windows, including the sunroof.
• Lock external toolboxes and equipment, if they can’t be removed.

Park in a well-lit and secure area

Ensure you park your car safely.

• Park off the street. A locked garage is best or a driveway if you don’t have a garage.
• If parked in a driveway, consider the installation of a sensor light and CCTV.
• If you need to park on the street, park in a well-lit area.

What to do if your car has been broken into

If your car has been broken into:

• do not confront the thief., your safety is more important than your possessions
• do not touch anything
• call your insurance company

Report theft from your vehicle

For emergencies, to report a crime in progress, or for immediate police attendance, call Triple Zero (000).

For non-emergencies, call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or report online at Police Assistance Line and Online Reporting.