Victoria records $244 million in vehicle-theft insurance claims as state election approaches

# What happened Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) figures show Victoria had more than 12,300 motor-vehicle theft and burglary insurance claims in the year to June 30, 2026. Those claims cost insurers $244 million — up 9% on the previous financial year. The ICA says metropolitan areas drove the rise, and the state's trend contrasts with falling vehicle-theft claims across every other Australian state and territory.

# How fast the problem is growing Victoria's claims accelerated in 2026. During the first half of 2026 the number of claims in Victoria increased by 28%, while New South Wales recorded a 28% decline in the same period. The cost of Victorian vehicle-theft claims rose 26% in the first half of 2026 and has increased 168% since 2022.

# What the ICA is asking for

# Charges for motorists and insurers The report highlights the flow-on cost to premiums. It notes Victorian motorists pay the second-highest average comprehensive policy in Australia, at $1,285. The ICA frames its policy package as a way to reduce these costs by lowering theft and property crime rates.

# Actions already taken Several practical measures are already in motion:

• Victoria Police launched a publicly accessible online stolen-vehicle database this week. The tool lets users search by registration, make and model to see whether a vehicle has been reported stolen and to notify police of its location.
• Toyota Australia introduced new anti-theft devices for some high-theft models, including the LandCruiser 300 Series and Prado 250 Series, following earlier releases such as a branded steering-wheel lock. These steps respond to significant thefts of Toyota models including the RAV4 and HiLux.

# Context and comparisons Queensland and New South Wales previously recorded higher or comparable theft levels, but have reduced claims more recently. In 2023 Queensland had more vehicle-theft claims than Victoria, but by 2025–26 Victoria's rate continued to climb while Queensland's fell. The broader reporting points to both petty crime and organised theft as contributors to the losses recorded by insurers.

# What this means for readers If you live in Victoria, expect heightened public debate on law-and-order and insurance policy in the lead-up to the November election. Practical steps you can consider include checking the new Victoria Police stolen-vehicle database when buying a used car, using approved immobilisers or physical locks for at-risk models, and reviewing your insurance cover and excess in light of rising premium pressure.

# Immediate next steps to watch

• Whether major parties adopt the ICA's 10 recommendations in their election platforms.
• Rollout details and uptake of the Victoria Police stolen-vehicle database, and whether it reduces recovery times.