Motor Vehicle Thefts Jump 41 per cent in Victoria

The number of motor vehicles stolen in Victoria has surged by 41 per cent in just 12 months.

Crime statistics released by the Victorian Government today show the number of stolen vehicles has skyrocketed to 28,922 recorded offences per 100,000 in 2024 from 20,499 in the year prior.

According to Victoria Police, the theft of motor vehicles accounts for the largest percentage increase across all categories.

It’s the highest number of motor vehicle thefts over the past decade, with the previous highest year being in 2016 when 23,940 offences per capita were recorded.

The alarming figures also show a jump of more than 50 per cent since 2015.

It’s believed 20 per cent of all vehicle thefts are conducted by accessing the car’s on-board diagnostic port using handheld devices.

“Our crime data is indicating that we are, and have reached levels of crime never experienced in this state – certainly since electronic records were kept,” Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Robert Hill said.

{{AD}}

‍

“We have reached crime rates in the state that are completely unacceptable. The community deserve more, the community want more, and we need to address the issues, here and now.”

Including all crime data, and accounting for population growth, levels have increased 13 per cent year-on-year.

Youth crime has also reached a new milestone, with the number of offences by those aged between 10 and 17 hitting peaks not seen since 1993.

“We implore upon the community to think about their vehicle security,” Deputy Commissioner Hill said.

“Certain makes of motor cars – Holdens, in particular, in the years of manufacture dating back to 2010, seems to be the vehicle of choice for those offenders.”

The senior officer said owners can purchase anti-theft devices – such as OBDII (diagnostics) port locks – to discourage thieves.

RELATED: We Need To Talk About The Kids