Vehicle thefts across Australia reached their highest level in 17 years in 2025, with new crime data prompting a warning for households to review their insurance cover.
Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics recorded 66,625 motor vehicle theft victims nationwide last year, an increase of 2 per cent, or 1,022 victims, compared with 2024.
Victoria recorded an 11 per cent rise, with 24,929 motor vehicle theft victims in 2025. The figure was the highest recorded in the state since 2002.
The figures come as the number of theft and robbery victims, excluding vehicle theft, fell during 2025.
iSelect’s Sophie Ryan said the data highlighted the potential financial pressure theft can place on households and encouraged consumers to check their insurance before they need to make a claim.
“Many people take out a policy and don’t revisit it for years,” Ms Ryan said.
“As the value of their car, home and belongings changes over time, it’s important to regularly review your cover and understand exactly what is and isn’t included.”
She said households should consider their home and contents insurance as well as vehicle cover, particularly when leaving their homes unattended during holidays.
Insurance policies can differ in areas including theft cover, excesses, replacement benefits, optional extras and limits applying to valuables and personal belongings.
Ms Ryan urged consumers to check these details and compare policies to ensure their cover remains suitable for their circumstances.
For vehicle owners, this includes understanding what their car insurance provides if the vehicle is stolen and whether the existing level of cover continues to meet their needs.
Households can also take practical precautions to reduce the risk of theft, including securing doors and windows, locking vehicles and keeping records of valuable possessions.
The ABS data provides a snapshot of reported crime during 2025, while insurance decisions remain dependent on individual policies, circumstances and the terms and conditions set by insurers.
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