Latest house break in data from RACQ

Data documenting break-ins monitored by RACQ.

Data from RACQ indicates that the areas most affected by home burglaries included Brisbane's southside, inner Brisbane, and Townsville in North Queensland. Brisbanes southside experienced the highest number of home thefts an 18% increase in insurance claims from the previous year. In 2023, RACQ had received 1,327 claims for home theft, with the period from January to March recording the highest number of claims. Its also interesting to note that more thefts occured on weekdays than any weekends, with Monday being the most popular day for break ins. 

Aside from the RACQ data the most current data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported Break-ins increased for the first time in over a decade, with 2.0 per cent of households experiencing a break-in over the last 12 months, according to figures released Feb 2023. Will Milne, ABS head of crime and justice statistics, said: “This was up from the lowest recorded rate of 1.7 per cent in 2020-21, which coincided with sustained periods of lockdowns and COVID-19 restrictions across Australia.

Repercussions of a home break-in

Experiencing a burglary in your home can be an emotionally distressing and violating event that evokes a range of emotions, on one hand, anger at the violation of your personal space, and on the other hand, you might feel a sense of relief that no one was harmed, and only possessions were taken. People often describe a range of emotions and reactions as

Fear and Anxiety - A break-in can shatter the sense of security you feel in your own home. The fear of the unknown, not knowing if the intruder is still present or if they might return, can be particularly unsettling.

Violation of Privacy - Knowing that someone has invaded your personal space, rummaged through your belongings, and possibly stolen valuable items can create a deep sense of violation.

Anger and Frustration - Victims of burglary may experience anger at the perpetrators and frustration at the loss of possessions, as well as the inconvenience and disruption caused by the incident.

Loss of Trust - The incident can lead to a diminished sense of trust, not only in strangers but also in the security measures that were supposed to protect your home.

Trauma and Emotional Impact - For some individuals, a burglary can cause lasting emotional trauma, leading to symptoms such as insomnia, nightmares, and heightened anxiety.

Financial Stress - The loss of valuable items and potential property damage may result in financial stress, especially if the stolen items are not covered by insurance.

Increased Vigilance - Following a break-in, individuals often become more vigilant about home security, implementing additional measures to prevent future incidents.

Security systems are a must!

Given the escalating occurrences of home break-ins having a home security system, locks, and surveillance cameras installed is an investment you won't regret. In most instances, if a perpetrator sees that there is a security system in place they will move on to another property. Additionally, installing security systems and alarm monitoring will not only enhance the security of your property and the safety of your family but will help restore a sense of control and ultimately peace of mind.

References:

https://www.racq.com.au/latest-news/news/2024/02/queensland-home-theft-hotspots-revealed

https://www.police.qld.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-07/Home%20security%20guide-2021-WEB.pdf

https://www.inqld.com.au/business/2024/02/23/to-the-surprise-of-no-one-suncorp-reveals-more-than-6-million-stolen-from-qld-homes

https://www.abs.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/break-ins-increase-after-record-low

https://www.budgetdirect.com.au/home-contents-insurance/home-safety/home-security/months-with-most-burglaries.html

https://www.dsh.gov.au/news-and-media/did-you-know-35-australian-households-were-victims-break-ins-or-attempted-break-ins#