Calls to make anti-theft screws mandatory

IN RESPONSE to an increase in number plate thefts, RACV is calling on the Victorian government to mandate anti-theft screws in new and second-hand vehicles.

The state-based organisation suggests the requirement could be phased in, starting with standard number plates and for VicRoads to provide individuals with the anti-theft screws on new or replacement number plates.

Neighbourhood Watch chief executive officer Bambi Gordon said although number plate theft seems like a low-level crime, it can lead to serious issues.

“Number plates remain the most commonly stolen item from vehicles, with thieves able to remove standard plates in under 10 seconds,” she said.

“Stolen plates are being used to commit other crimes including fuel theft, drug trafficking, ram raids, burglaries, police evasion and avoiding traffic infringements.”

Stolen plates also create a financial burden for victims with replacement costs ranging from $39 to $293 depending on the plate and driving without proper number plates can result in a $385 fine and three demerit points.

Car owners should also be careful about posting images of number plates online with criminals also copying registration details from photos, printing them and using them to cover their own plates.

Calls for the mandate come after almost 27,000 number plates were stolen across Victoria in 2024, a rise of 45.8 per cent since 2023.

Neighbourhood Watch, Victoria Police and RACV have partnered to host Safe Plate Days around Victoria over the coming months, including at Torquay Bunnings on April 21 and North Geelong Bunnings on May 18.

Stolen number plates should be reported to local police by visiting the nearest station, phoning 131 444 or submitting an online form.

For more information, head to nhw.com.au

The Victorian government was contacted for comment but did not respond by the time this newspaper went to print.