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Auto insurer RACQ has warned southeast Queensland motorists to be vigilant about car safety. New insurance data, covering Jan. 1, 2015 to December 2017, showed that 18 of the state's top 20 suburbs for car theft were all located in the region.
RACQ spokesperson Kirsty Clinton said RACQ received more than 50,000 claims for stolen vehicles in the past three years.
The top 20 suburbs for stolen cars are Southport, Red Hill, Harristown, Caboolture, Inala, Sunnybank Hills, Zillmere, Oxley, Fortitude Valley, Arundel, Ipswich, Durack, Molendinar, Logan Central, Maryborough, Buderim, Tanah Merah, Greenslopes, Loganholme, and Balmoral.
“This is not a list you want to feature on, and it’s shocking to see most thefts coming from the southeast,” Clinton said. “Unfortunately for those living in Southport, it’s the worst place for car theft in Queensland. If you own a Toyota Landcruiser, Ford Falcon or Toyota Corolla you’re also at risk, with these models topping the wish list for thieves.”
Clinton said motorists should prioritise taking simple safety precautions.
“Always lock your car and ensure all windows are up when you leave it unattended,” she said. “Wherever possible park in a secure garage or park somewhere well-lit and well-populated. Thieves are often opportunistic, so don’t tempt them by leaving valuables visible inside. Importantly, treat your keys like cash. Keep them on you and don’t leave them lying around.”
