According to UNE's survey, livestock theft is the most underreported crime, with only around 50% - 60% reported to police. Reasons cited for not reporting include a lack of confidence in police being able to do anything, with circumstances of thefts difficult to pinpoint due to livestock roaming unchecked for large spans of time across vast areas.
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The impact of crime on mental health can also be significant, with incidents leaving farmers feeling vulnerable, isolated, and worrying about crime consistently.
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WFI claims data shows:
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The height of summer is when rural crime peaks. On average, January has around 14% more crime related insurance claims than any other month, followed by February and March.
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Winter months see significantly less crime. On average, June has the lowest rate, with around 27% fewer crime related claims compared to January.
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Caravan and motorcycle theft surged 80% last year, while passenger vehicle thefts such as Utes and 4WDs decreased by around 16%.
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Motor claims include vehicles and machinery being stripped of engines, fuel, tyres, rims, and GPS systems.
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WFI recommends farmers meet regularly with their insurance representative and review policies to ensure assets are listed, coverage is adequate, and equipment and livestock records are maintained.
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To access WFI's factsheet with tips to reduce crime on farms, please see: wfi-farm-crime-in-australia-wfi1251-rev1-1125.pdf
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To listen to the podcast, please visit: Rural crime - the silent epidemic - Good People to Know | Podcast on Spotify
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UNE National Farm Crime Survey
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Research(2) shows the installation of signage can be a major deterrent to criminals.
"Crime prevention literature shows the overwhelming impact of signage. Do not enter, private property, CCTV in use, has an immense impact on offender psyche," said Dr Mulrooney.
According to UNE's survey, livestock theft is the most underreported crime, with only around 50% - 60% reported to police. Reasons cited for not reporting include a lack of confidence in police being able to do anything, with circumstances of thefts difficult to pinpoint due to livestock roaming unchecked for large spans of time across vast areas.
The impact of crime on mental health can also be significant, with incidents leaving farmers feeling vulnerable, isolated, and worrying about crime consistently.
WFI claims data shows:
The height of summer is when rural crime peaks. On average, January has around 14% more crime related insurance claims than any other month, followed by February and March.
Winter months see significantly less crime. On average, June has the lowest rate, with around 27% fewer crime related claims compared to January.
Caravan and motorcycle theft surged 80% last year, while passenger vehicle thefts such as Utes and 4WDs decreased by around 16%.
Motor claims include vehicles and machinery being stripped of engines, fuel, tyres, rims, and GPS systems.
WFI recommends farmers meet regularly with their insurance representative and review policies to ensure assets are listed, coverage is adequate, and equipment and livestock records are maintained.
To access WFI's factsheet with tips to reduce crime on farms, please see: wfi-farm-crime-in-australia-wfi1251-rev1-1125.pdf
To listen to the podcast, please visit: Rural crime - the silent epidemic - Good People to Know | Podcast on Spotify
