MANSFIELD Shire may just be the safest place to park your car in Victoria.

While vehicle thefts have hit record highs across the state, Mansfield Shire recorded just five thefts in the 12 months to June 2024, down from eleven in 2023, according to Crime Statistics Agency data.

This stands in stark contrast to neighbouring shires, where vehicle theft numbers are on the rise.

Across North East Victoria, thefts have surged.

In the Wangaratta Police Service Area (PSA) a total of 79 vehicles were stolen in the last year, following a high of 89 in 2023.

Wodonga topped the charts, with 96 thefts in 2023 and an even higher 112 this year – the highest rate across North East Victoria.

While vehicle thefts in Moira Shire held steady at 47 and 45 over the last two years, these numbers still eclipse the theft rates in smaller LGAs like Alpine and Benalla.

Benalla reported 18 thefts each year, Strathbogie saw 17, and Indigo recorded 9, though still higher than Mansfield’s five.

Victoria-wide, the outlook is bleaker.

Motor vehicle thefts have surged by almost 25 per cent, reaching over 23,248 thefts or attempted thefts in the past year.

This marks a 10-year high for the state, with an increase of 4500 offences from the previous year.

Theft from inside vehicles has also risen by 17.2 per cent, with more than 9,000 reported cases.

Major insurer RACV has issued a call for vigilance, reminding Victorians to lock up their vehicles and conceal valuables.

RACV general manager of motoring products, Jeff Ames, highlighted the ease with which thieves are seizing opportunities left by car owners.

“Opportunistic thieves will break into or enter a car and take possessions that are easily visible from outside the vehicle, often using the opportunity to steal the car itself,” Mr Ames said.

“It’s crucial to protect your vehicle, including when it’s parked at home, in the street, or even in secure carparks. If your car is parked at home in a driveway, this doesn’t mean it’s completely safe either – don’t forget to lock the doors, wind up windows, and ensure nothing valuable is in plain sight.”

Victoria Police have also shared tips to deter would-be thieves.

Motorists are encouraged to install car alarms, lock their cars (even at home), close all windows, and secure external equipment.

Parking off the street, or in a locked garage if possible, is highly recommended.

Sensor lights, CCTV, and well-lit parking areas are other ways to deter crime.