Key Points
- According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, there were 380,000 home break-ins or attempted break-ins in 2022-23 countrywide.
- To minimise the risk of a home invasion, police forces across various states offer useful tips.
- Victoria Police advise making your home seems occupied even when it’s not.
“When I woke up and saw my living room in disarray, drawers were opened, and my laptop, house keys, and car keys were gone, I realised the break-in had happened while we were asleep,” Hardik Dave told SBS Gujarati.
The unknown offenders stole a laptop and keys before fleeing in the victim’s Mercedes wagon that was parked in the driveway. Credit: Supplied/SBS Gujarati
According to the , there were 380,000 home break-ins or attempted break-ins in 2022-23.
As the holiday season approaches, many Australians plan vacations, but burglars often target homes left vacant during these times.
Police advise talking all necessary steps before heading on vacation. (Representative image.) Credit: Westend61/Getty Images/Westend61
However, this shouldn’t discourage anyone from taking a well-deserved break. To minimise the risk of a home invasion, police offer useful tips.
His tips include:
- Double-check that all windows, doors, gates, sheds, and garages are locked and secure.
- Ask a friend or neighbour to park in your driveway, collect your mail, and manage your garbage bins.
- Keep your lawn tidy and trimmed.
- Don’t post your vacation plans on social media post.
- Provide a trusted person with your contact details.
- Stop or redirect any expected deliveries.
- Avoid packing your vehicle the night before departure.
One should be checking all doors, windows, gates , garages and making sure they are locked and secured properly
Inspector Bradley Parker, New South Wales Police
Western Australia Police also urge basic precautions, including:
- Ensuring all external doors and windows are locked,
- Leaving spare keys with a trusted person who has your contact details,
- Disabling roller doors if possible.
Sharing any concerns about unusual behaviour with neighbours fosters a safer community, he said.
Police say burglars often target homes left vacant during the holiday period. (Representative image.) Credit: Westend61/Getty Images/Westend61
advise making your home seem occupied even when it’s not. They say taking certain steps can secure your homes from theft:
- Cancelling newspaper subscriptions,
- Asking a neighbour or friend to regularly check your mailbox, put out your bins, mow your front lawn, and sometimes park in your driveway,
- Installing a video doorbell to monitor your doorstep and communicate with anyone who rings,
- Avoiding posting about your holiday plans on social media, as burglars can track such posts to know when you’re away.
It’s best to keep your vehicle in a locked garage. If you park your car in a driveway, consider the installation of a sensor light and CCTV.
Victoria Police
For further information, visit your relevant state police website: