Crime
Trung LUU (Western Metropolitan) (18:28): (1943) My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Police regarding the alarming surge in motor vehicle theft occurring in our state. The action I seek is for the minister to release a detailed plan outlining how the Allan Labor government intend to combat the significant increase in theft of motor vehicles. Data from the Insurance Council of Australia indicates that while most states in Australia experienced a decline in motor vehicle theft claims over the past financial year, Victoria unfortunately tops the charts for all the wrong reasons. Our state of Victoria saw a staggering 59 per cent increase in the number of motor vehicle theft claims, accompanied by a 70 per cent rise in related costs. This accounts for more than 12,000 claims. According to the Crime Statistics Agency’s 2024 data, nearly 20,000 vehicles were reported stolen in Victoria, averaging out at 109 cars stolen every single day. This marked the highest rate recorded in the past two decades, and it represents a dramatic 41 per cent increase compared to the previous year. We are facing a crisis. In my electorate, Wyndham City Council was one of the hardest hit for car theft, along with other LGAs such as Casey, Hume and Whittlesea, which are also seeing a year-on-year increase. This crisis is not occurring elsewhere in Australia, highlighting just how severe the situation has become under this Labor government in Victoria. While we can all take measures to help protect our vehicles, I encourage all motorists to visit the RACV website to familiarise themselves with their helpful tips, because obviously the government is not doing anything. The Allan Labor government must step up and examine the policies and initiatives that are effective in other states. Notably, Queensland have achieved an 11 per cent reduction in motor theft claims. Western Australia, South Australia and New South Wales have also reported a significant decrease – a decrease in all these other states. I urge the minister: prioritise addressing this issue. We all deserve to feel safe in our homes and have the confidence that our cars and belongings will remain secure.