Car theft prevention tips and the most stolen cars

In 2024, there were 65,603 motor vehicle thefts. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics that’s 8% more than the previous year. At the centre of the crime wave is Victoria, with car thefts up by 41%. This has affected 22,504 people – the most since 2003.

More than 12,000 claims were reported in Victoria, mostly from Melbourne, says the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA). The ICA confirms that car theft insurance claims reached a total of $223 million in the year leading up to June 2025.

At Allianz, we know that car theft can be very upsetting and stressful. To help you and your loved ones avoid it, we’ve used our Motor Claims data¹ to provide some essential car theft prevention tips.

Thieves look for easy targets, like cars with keys left inside. Allianz Motor Claims data for 2024 shows some common situations where this happens. 

• Unattended vehicles: Leaving keys behind. For example, when unloading groceries, paying for fuel after filling up, or grabbing a coffee.
• Unlocked cars: Even leaving your car briefly to get something from your house may give thieves easy access.
• Distractions: Shopping, visiting friends, or running errands may distract you enough to leave keys in the car.
• A false sense of security: You may think your car’s safe at home, in your driveway, garage, or gated property. 
• Opportunity: Thieves may strike when you step away from your car, even for a few seconds.

Did you know that the most common theft method is using the vehicle’s key? Don’t let car thieves get hold of your car key or fob. Make sure you keep them safe. 

• Store keys in a secure place, out of sight. Don’t just leave them on a kitchen bench or on a table in the hall.
• Keep key fobs away from doors and windows to lessen your risk of keyless theft. That’s one of the ways thieves can use electronic devices to boost the fob’s signal and unlock your car without the key.
• Use a RFID (radio frequency identification) blocker pouch or Faraday box for your key fob.
• Never leave car keys, including spares, in your vehicle – even if you think they’re well hidden. Keep spare keys in a secure place at home or work.
• Don’t put your name and address on any keys – use a mobile phone number instead.

ABS statistics show that over half of motor vehicle thefts happen at home. The good news is there are things you can do to deter car thieves.

• Always lock car doors and close windows, even at home or in your garage. 
• Install anti-theft systems such as alarms, on-board diagnostic (OBD) port locks, engine immobilisers, or keyless digital blockers.
• Make your garage more secure by shortening or removing the manual opening lever cord. This prevents it being hooked from the outside.

• Install security cameras and motion-sensor lights around your property. 
• Keep windows and doors closed and lock security doors even when you’re home.
• Lock garage doors, and the any doors that then lead into your home. 
• Avoid leaving spare keys in obvious places. 

• Park in well-lit areas or secure garages whenever possible. 
• If you park in a driveway, consider installing a sensor light and CCTV.
• Avoid isolated spots that thieves may target. 
• Use anti-theft screws for number plates in high-crime areas. 

If your car has electronic push start technology, Victoria Police recommend you install an OBD port lock. They’re relatively cheap, easy to install, and readily available from auto shops offering anti-theft solutions.

Holden VF Commodore SS series owners might ask their auto electrician to install a horn bypass. This may prevent thieves from silencing your car’s factory alarm systems.

Follow the advice from Victoria Police: don’t confront the thief. Your safety comes first. When you’re ready, take these steps.

With car theft on the rise, it’s important to keep your vehicle secure. By knowing the risks, staying informed, and using these practical tips, you may reduce your chances of becoming a victim of car theft. Stay alert and don’t make it easy for car thieves.