Motor vehicle theft is unfortunately one of the most common types of theft in the ACT but with a few precautions and greater community awareness it can be greatly reduced.
Please see the Motor vehicle security pamphlet (PDF, 100KB).
What to do if your car is stolen
If your car is stolen, report it to ACT Policing immediately, giving the registration number, make, model, colour and the time and place of the offence. You should also report this to your insurance company.
If you have information that can assist police in recovering a stolen motor vehicle, call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The affects of car theft on the community
Car theft not only causes trauma and cost to the individual but to the whole community. Stolen cars can be used to commit other, more serious crimes such as armed robbery or house burglaries.
How to protect your car from theft
By applying a few simple strategies you can reduce the opportunity for crime and decrease the chances of your car being stolen.
- Always lock doors and close windows when your vehicle is unattended.
- Park your car in the street and use an area that is well lit at night.
- If you must leave valuables in your car, make sure they are locked away out of sight.
- Spare keys should never be hidden in or on the car.
- If you have a garage, use it rather than leave your car in the driveway or on the street.
- Remove cheque books, credit cards, driver's licence and registration papers from the glove box.
- Record serial numbers of valuables and details of your car such as make, model and engine number.
- Engrave or mark your property with your driver's licence number preceded by 'A' for the ACT. Also mark your licence number on several places in the car.
- When your car is being repaired leave only the ignition key.
- Avoid placing your name, address and registration number on keys.
- Take your car keys with you or hide them when you leave your car at home unattended.
Anti-theft devices you can use
Time spent identifying your property and securing your car is time well spent. The following anti-theft devices are currently available to help you secure your car:
- engine immobiliser
- ignition shield
- fuel cut-out switch
- ultrasonic motion sensor (detects movement inside the car)
- glass etching (Vehicle Identity Number)
- glass break detector
- high powered electronic noise maker and stand by power unit
- battery isolator
- steering wheel lock
- hand brake lock
- transmission lock
- wheel lock.
More information
More information is available from the Carsafe website, which was created by the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council. A combination of all Australian governments and the insurance industry have formed this body to help reduce Australia's unacceptable level of vehicle theft by providing information and education programs.