Community
30 July, 2026
Increase in thefts prompts safety warning
RESIDENTS across the district have been urged to ensure their property is kept safe after a spike in theft from rural areas.
Mortlake Police have urged members of the public who reside in rural and remote areas to cast their attention to safe property practices.
Sergeant Nathan Hunt said residents should be mindful of their belongings and property at all times.
“Tips for safe property practices include rural farm owners removing their keys and locking their vehicles and farm vehicles, including motorbikes,” he said.
“Power tools and chainsaws are also popular items to steal out of the sheds.
“To prevent thefts, try and secure tools and place markings on them to assist in easier identification of ownership in the event that the property is recovered by police.”
Sgt Hunt said security systems on farms would also provide a boost, both as a measure of prevention and assisting investigations should the worst happen.
“If you live in a remote rural area, consider installing CCTV cameras on your home, sheds and even the front gate,” he said.
“CCTV cameras can be a prevention tool, but they also greatly assist in identifying persons who may enter your property whilst you are away.
“Due to the cost of fuel, ensure sturdy locks are placed on fuel storage containers.
“Don’t forget, you can also register your absence from your residence if you’re going away – which can be done online or at your local police station.”
To register an absence from residence online, visit police.vic.gov.au.