Queensland sees car theft claims more than double

New data has revealed Australia's regions with the highest rates of car theft. In Queensland, car theft claims have more than doubled over the past ten years. From 2015 to 2024, claims jumped from 3,434 to 6,919, a 101 percent increase. This has led to significant losses for victims, costing them $113 million last year. Regions outside major cities in Queensland have been particularly affected. More than 4,000 of the theft claims in 2024 came from rural and regional areas. The costs associated with these thefts have surged 305 percent compared to nine years ago. Victoria is also experiencing a serious problem with car theft. Insurance claims in the state rose by 70 percent in 2024, reaching nearly 9,816. The cost of these claims rose to $173 million, up from $46 million in 2015. In contrast, Western Australia saw a decline. Car theft claims dropped by 20 percent there, totaling 4,316 claims for $25 million. Meanwhile, New South Wales recorded 5,718 claims worth $101 million, and South Australia had 1,473 claims valued at $16 million. Experts warn that the rising rates of theft, along with increasing car and repair costs, suggest that insurance premiums may rise. The Insurance Council of Australia's CEO, Kylie Macfarlane, highlighted the alarming theft rates, stressing that they will ultimately impact all motorists.