New data from Victoria’s Crime Statistics Agency reveals a dramatic increase in car thefts over the past year, raising concerns among residents and law enforcement alike. The figures indicate that 28,482 vehicles were stolen in Victoria in the 12 months leading up to June 2025, a significant rise from the 20,477 thefts recorded the previous year.
This alarming trend becomes even more pronounced when compared to 2022, during which 13,185 cars were stolen, marking a staggering 116 percent increase over three years. The surge has pushed motor vehicle thefts in Victoria to their highest levels in over two decades, with child offenders being responsible for more than 25 percent of these crimes.
Rising Attempts and Contributing Factors
While the statistics for successful thefts are concerning, the number of attempted thefts has also seen a sharp increase. Between 2024 and 2025, attempted vehicle thefts rose from 2,755 to 4,536, a 65 percent jump. This suggests that both police efforts and vehicle owner vigilance may be complicating theft attempts.
The overall number of recorded offences in Victoria increased by 15.7 percent over the past year, with motor vehicle-related thefts being a major contributor. Theft from vehicles alone surged by nearly 50 percent. According to Victoria Police, number plates are the most frequently stolen items, accounting for 40 percent of these offences. These stolen plates are often used on stolen cars to evade police or commit further crimes, such as petrol theft.
Aggravated Burglaries and Youth Offending
Aggravated home burglaries, often linked to vehicle thefts, have also increased by 20 percent in 2025. Attempted aggravated burglaries rose by 42.5 percent, highlighting a growing trend of residential crimes associated with car thefts.
Victoria Police data shows that repeat child offenders, aged 10 to 17, are disproportionately involved in these crimes. Over the past year, 1,128 children were arrested a total of 7,118 times, averaging at least one arrest per child every eight weeks. Despite a reduction of 149 fewer children arrested compared to 2024, the total number of arrests increased by 26.7 percent.
Technological Challenges and Police Response
One in five cars is now stolen using advanced electronic key reprogramming or mimicking technology, with over 800 such devices seized by authorities in the past year. This technological aspect of car thefts presents a new challenge for law enforcement.
“As a society, we simply cannot allow the level of crime we are seeing to become normalised and accepted – every Victorian deserves to feel safe in their home, within the community and on the roads,” Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Regional Operations Bob Hill stated.
Deputy Commissioner Hill emphasized the ongoing efforts by Victoria Police to tackle these issues head-on, acknowledging the exceptional work of police members in resolving these crimes. However, he also highlighted the need for community involvement in crime prevention, urging residents to take simple measures such as locking doors and considering anti-theft devices for their vehicles.
Looking Ahead: Community and Law Enforcement Strategies
The rise in car thefts in Victoria underscores the need for a multifaceted approach to crime prevention. Law enforcement agencies are ramping up efforts to address the technological and social factors contributing to this trend. Meanwhile, community awareness and proactive measures by vehicle owners remain crucial components in combating vehicle theft.
As authorities continue to adapt to the evolving landscape of car thefts, the emphasis on community engagement and technological advancements in security systems will play a pivotal role in curbing this crime wave. The coming months will be critical in assessing the effectiveness of these strategies and ensuring the safety of Victorian residents.
