Tasmanians warned as car thefts surge.
Crime Stoppers Tasmania and RACT have teamed up this summer on a campaign urging action to address the significant rise in vehicle theft.
The ‘Lock It or Lose It’ campaign encourages Tasmanians to lock and secure their family or work vehicle to protect one of their most used assets.
Crime Stoppers Tasmania Chair David Daniels OAM said the campaign focused on the impact of vehicle theft on the individual, family, business and community.
“We need to inform and engage the public in the fight against car-related crimes, highlighting the importance of vehicle security and simple habits that help to deter thieves,” Mr Daniels said.
RACT Chief Executive Officer Mark Mugnaioni said recent insurance figures revealed that more than 50 per cent of vehicles stolen were parked in a residential driveway, carport, or garage at the time of the offence.
A recent member survey has also highlighted that 20% of respondents regularly leave their car unlocked when parked at home.
“We’ve seen a concerning trend, and an increase of 92 per cent in car theft claims from RACT insurance members between financial years 2022 and 2024.,” Mr Mugnaioni said.
“This upward trend equates to over three cars per week being reported as stolen to our claims team.
The three-month campaign, promoted on social media, websites, digital billboards, and screens at RACT’s branches.
To support the campaign, RACT has put together a comprehensive checklist to help people safeguard their vehicles:
- Always lock and secure your vehicle.
- Never leave a spare key on your wheel or under your car.
- Keep your car keys out of sight and away from doors and windows at home.
- Close all your car windows securely.
- Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
- Ensure your garage doors and windows are secure.
- Activate alarms and anti-theft devices.
- Consider using a steering wheel lock, especially for older cars.
- Think about investing in a vehicle tracking device to aid in locating your vehicle if stolen.
Pictured: RACT CEO Mark Mugnaioni, Crime Stoppers Tasmania Chair David Daniels OAM and Tasmania Police Acting Inspector Danny Jackson
Crime Stoppers Tasmania and RACT urge the community to take these preventive measures to protect their vehicles, families, and the broader community from the impact of car theft and burglary.
If you have seen or heard about criminal activity or suspicious behaviour, please contact Crime Stoppers at crimestopperstas.com.au or 1800 333 000. You can stay anonymous if you choose.