Income Insurance Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Car Theft Claims Skyrocket, Raising Insurance Concerns

Car Theft Claims Skyrocket, Raising Insurance Concerns

Car Theft Claims Skyrocket, Raising Insurance Concerns?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The Insurance Council of Australia has unveiled substantial data revealing that the expense related to vehicle theft claims has almost doubled since 2015.
Last year, the industry handled $428 million in claims, signaling a stark increase from $218 million a decade ago.
The data comes from Insurance Statistics Australia, which has adjusted historic dollar values for inflation, highlighting an urgent trend in rising car crime claims.

Particularly striking is the 27% rise in claim numbers, growing from 22,000 to 28,000. Interestingly, this surge is primarily driven by regional areas in Australia, though metropolitan zones noted a slight decline. State-wise breakdown shows Queensland and Victoria witnessing the most significant rises in claims.

In Queensland, the total cost of vehicle theft claims soared to $113 million from $36 million in 2015, coinciding with a 32% rise in vehicle policies. Victoria reported 7,823 metro area thefts, costing $140 million, marking a notable escalation in both numbers and expenses.

Conversely, a decline in claim numbers was noted in Western Australia and New South Wales metropolitan areas, while South Australia saw a marginal increase. Overall, the number of vehicle policies escalated by 26%, reaching 12.1 million from 9.6 million in 2015.

Kylie Macfarlane, the deputy CEO of the ICA, pointed out the rising vehicle values and increasing costs of parts and labor as significant contributors to the upward pressure on premiums nationwide. She emphasized recognizing the frequency and cost of motor theft as documented by the industry, indicating widespread implications that could affect consumers broadly.

Insurance Statistics Australia, a voluntary body managing data for insurance stakeholders including the ICA, underscores the growing concern with its latest findings. This trend necessitates vigilance, given its potential impact on the insurance landscape and consumer costs.

Published:Monday, 24th Mar 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Queensland Strata Owners: Act Now to Lower Your Insurance Premiums
Queensland Strata Owners: Act Now to Lower Your Insurance Premiums
05 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
Strata property owners in North and Central Queensland are being urged to take advantage of new federal and state initiatives designed to reduce insurance premiums and enhance cyclone resilience. These programs provide financial incentives for property upgrades that can lead to significant savings on insurance costs. - read more
Strata Living in Australia: A $1.4 Trillion Market and Growing
Strata Living in Australia: A $1.4 Trillion Market and Growing
05 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
The insured value of strata properties in Australia has reached an estimated $1.4 trillion, underscoring the growing significance of strata living in the nation's housing landscape. This substantial valuation reflects the increasing number of Australians choosing strata-titled properties as their preferred mode of residence. - read more
CHU's 2025 Report: Strata Insurance Premiums Remain Stable Amidst Industry Shifts
CHU's 2025 Report: Strata Insurance Premiums Remain Stable Amidst Industry Shifts
05 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
CHU, Australia's largest strata insurance underwriting agency, has released its 2025 State of the Strata Market report, providing a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the industry. The report offers valuable insights into premium movements, the impact of weather events, regulatory developments, and emerging risks affecting strata insurance. - read more
Surge in Mental Health Claims Reshapes Australia's Insurance Landscape
Surge in Mental Health Claims Reshapes Australia's Insurance Landscape
02 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
Australia's insurance industry is experiencing a significant shift as mental health conditions have become the leading cause of total and permanent disability (TPD) claims. Recent data from the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) indicates that mental health issues now account for nearly one-third of all TPD claims, marking a substantial change in the industry's claim patterns. - read more
Australian Insurance Premiums See Notable Decrease
Australian Insurance Premiums See Notable Decrease
02 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori
Recent data indicates a notable decline in life and income protection insurance premiums across Australia, providing consumers with more affordable coverage options. According to the latest Direct Life Insurance Report from Rainmaker Information, direct life premiums have decreased by 7% since 2024. Similarly, direct income protection premiums have seen significant reductions, with average premiums for waiting periods of 30 days and 90 days decreasing by 12% and 13%, respectively. - read more


Life Insurance Articles

Understanding the Process: A Beginner's Guide to Income Insurance Claims
Understanding the Process: A Beginner's Guide to Income Insurance Claims
Income insurance, an often-overlooked component of financial security, is gaining traction among Australia's burgeoning self-employed population. In an economy where traditional employment is no longer the sole path to success, this form of insurance has become a cornerstone for proactive financial planning. Touted as a safety net, it ensures that personal livelihoods and business operations remain secure in the face of adversity. - read more
Income Insurance: Common Misunderstandings that Could Cost You
Income Insurance: Common Misunderstandings that Could Cost You
When life throws unexpected challenges your way, income insurance can be a financial lifesaver. Essentially, it's a policy designed to replace a portion of your income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. Imagine not having to worry about bills piling up while you focus on recovery. That's the peace of mind income insurance aims to provide. - read more
Illness and Your Finances: Strategies for Continuous Income Flow
Illness and Your Finances: Strategies for Continuous Income Flow
When illness strikes, the impact on your finances can be as significant as on your health. Maintaining continuous income flow during such times is crucial for financial stability. - read more
Breaking Down Common Income Protection Insurance Terms
Breaking Down Common Income Protection Insurance Terms
Income protection insurance is designed to provide financial support if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. It aims to replace a portion of your income during such times, ensuring you can maintain your lifestyle and meet financial obligations. - read more
Comparing Income Protection Policies: What Australians Should Look For
Comparing Income Protection Policies: What Australians Should Look For
Income protection insurance serves as a financial safety net for countless Australians, offering a replacement income when unforeseen circumstances such as illness or injury impede their ability to earn. For the self-employed and entrepreneurs who may not have the safety nets offered by corporate employment, such protection is particularly important. - read more


Start Here !
disability protection
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Monthly Income Benefit:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.