Tradies urged to protect their tools

The Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) has released the Victorian recorded crime statistics from 2023. showing that more than $33 million worth of tools were stolen from Victorian tradies in 2023 – an increase of 33 per cent compared to the previous year.

A total of 18,626 power tools and 14,911 hand tools were stolen across Victoria.

CSA Chief Statistician Fiona Dowsley says the recent upturn in most key crime measures is due to increases in high-volume property and deception offences, particularly in thefts from motor vehicles and retail stores.

Due to their high value and easy portability, trade tools are particularly vulnerable to theft. Sole traders, individual contractors and small businesses can suffer a financial setback and reduced work capacity if tools are stolen.

Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) General Manager Home, Bill Bloodworth, recommends marking tools with your identification details, and securing them in a robust truck bed or a lockable toolbox that can be anchored to the vehicle with a strong security chain.

“To reduce the chance of theft, always ensure your tools are not left visible in your vehicle,” says Bloodworth.

“Thieves typically look for easy targets, so visibly securing and locking away your tools can deter them from attempting a theft.”

The RACV also recommends the use of small GPS trackers on high-value items, allowing owners to monitor the exact whereabouts of their tools via a smartphone app.

Bloodworth believes securing your vehicle is equally crucial to prevent it from being stolen, along with any tools inside.

“If you can, park your work vehicle, such as a ute or truck, in a secured garage,” he says.

Maintaining a detailed inventory list of tools can also assist police with identifying items if they do get stolen. Keeping a list of the makes, models, serial numbers and values is helpful, along with taking photos. This can also assist with insurance claims.