Australian Industry Group has called on the Victorian Government to reduce the level of car thefts in the state, following the release of criminal statistics showing almost a 100% increase in the past three years.
Data released today showed more than 32,000 vehicles were stolen in Victoria in 2025. Police have confirmed that up to one third of all vehicle thefts now involve electronic key cloning or reprogramming technology, allowing cars to be stolen in seconds without physical keys.
Australian Industry Group has warned the scale and sophistication of offending is placing increasing pressure on consumers, insurers, manufacturers and the broader community.
"This is no longer opportunistic crime – it is organised, technology enabled and escalating rapidly, and our discussions with Government have not created an urgency of action," the Victorian Head of Australian Industry Group, Tim Piper said.
"Car companies are deeply concerned about the impact on vehicle owners, rising insurance costs, supply chains and community confidence."
Mr Piper said manufacturers are working quickly to strengthen vehicle security, "but it can't be left just to manufacturers. Government must step into the breach and develop law enforcement and regulatory responses to keep pace with criminal technology."
Victoria Police estimates that up to 30 vehicles per day are being stolen using electronic devices, with more than 800 key cloning tools seized in the past year alone.
"Vehicle security is a shared responsibility. Manufacturers continue to invest in improved protections, but government action is critical to disrupt criminal access to illegal diagnostic and reprogramming devices," Mr Piper said.
Mr Piper said Australian Industry Group suggested action for state governments included:
"We risk car theft becoming normalised which is unacceptable.
"Victorians should be able to trust that their car will still be in the driveway in the morning," Mr Piper said.
Further comment:
Tim Piper – 0411 430 301
