Car security

Image of car being locked

Vehicle break-ins are often opportunistic crimes. Even when your car is locked, it’s not impenetrable; take the time to secure it.

Follow these tips to decrease the chances of theft or damage to your car.

  • Ensure the doors and boot are locked and secure.
  • Close all windows and the sunroof.
  • When parking your car at night, use an area that is well lit.
  • Do not leave valuables in your car like your wallet, phone or tablet, even if it’s locked.
  • Spare keys or garage remotes 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.
  • Avoid placing your name, address and registration number on keys.
  • Take your car keys with you, and when at home leave them in a secure place.
  • If you go away without your car, don’t leave the keys in plain sight in your house.

How to report

If you see someone loitering around parked cars, peering into car windows or acting in a suspicious manner, call police on 131 444.

If your car is stolen report it to police immediately on 131 444. Provide police with:

  • registration number
  • make
  • model
  • colour
  • distinguishing features
  • time and place of the offence.

If you have information that can assist police in recovering a stolen motor vehicle, call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the online reporting form.

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