Victoria’s Surge in Number Plate Thefts Sparks Call for Anti-Theft Screws

Victoria is experiencing a record-breaking surge in number plate thefts, leading to calls for stronger measures to combat the issue. The Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) has proposed making anti-theft screws mandatory for new and second-hand vehicles, as well as providing them for free when motorists receive new or replacement plates.

Record Number Plate Thefts in Victoria

🚘 In 2023, a staggering 27,466 number plate thefts were reported in Victoria—an alarming 45.8% increase from the previous year. 🚘 Number plate thefts made up more than one-third of all theft from motor vehicle offences (75,731 cases). 🚘 Stolen vehicle offences also rose to 28,922 cases. 🚘 That means, on average, 75 number plates are stolen every single day in Victoria.

Despite warnings for motorists to park off-street or in secure areas, the sheer volume of thefts suggests a more proactive solution is needed.

The RACV’s Push for Mandatory Anti-Theft Screws

To tackle the rise in thefts, the RACV is urging the Victorian Government to enforce the use of anti-theft screws at new and used car dealerships and make them available at VicRoads for motorists installing new or replacement plates.

🔹 What are anti-theft screws? These screws can be tightened with a flat-blade screwdriver but require a special tool to remove, making it much harder for thieves to quickly steal a number plate.

🔹 Why are they important? Thieves can steal standard number plates in under 10 seconds, using them for: ✅ Fuel theft ✅ Drug trafficking ✅ Ram raids ✅ Burglaries ✅ Police evasion ✅ Avoiding traffic fines

The Neighbourhood Watch Victoria has also thrown its support behind the proposal. The organisation runs ‘Safe Plate Days’ in partnership with RACV and Victoria Police, where volunteers fit anti-theft screws onto vehicles.

The Rise of Virtual Number Plate Theft

Beyond physical theft, criminals are now using “virtual theft” techniques to clone registration details by copying number plates from online photos.

🔹 They can print fake plates using: ✅ Laminated paper ✅ 3D printers

These cloned plates are then used to avoid detection while committing crimes.

What to Do If Your Plates Are Stolen

If your number plates are stolen, report it immediately to Victoria Police: 📞 Call 13 14 44 💻 Submit an online report 🏢 Visit your nearest police station

With the number of thefts continuing to climb, mandatory anti-theft screws could be a game-changer in reducing crime and keeping roads safer. 🚔🔩

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Credit: CarExpert.com.au