Strategies for Post-Burglary Actions
In the unfortunate event of a burglary, prioritizing safety is crucial. If you suspect the intruder is still inside, do not enter and call 000 immediately.
To aid in the prevention of crime in your community, consider joining Neighbourhood Watch. This initiative allows you to become an active part of your local crime prevention efforts.
Securing your property is also vital. Upgrade door locks to deadbolts or smart locks, install window locks and garage door locks. Keep valuable items such as laptops, tablets, or wallets away from windows and doors.
In addition, consider purchasing RACV Home and Contents Insurance to protect against financial loss in the event of a burglary.
If you believe the burglars have left, check for signs of forced entry, broken glass, damaged doors or windows, and avoid touching anything until police arrive.
Ask a neighbour for help in keeping your home looking inhabited when you're away. They can collect your mail, take out and bring in your bins, maintain your lawns, and occasionally park their car in your driveway.
Back up important digital files to secure cloud storage. Install 'Find My' applications on electronics and GPS trackers on motor vehicles.
If you saw the burglar's car, write down its make, model, colour, registration number, and direction of travel.
To report a burglary in Victoria and obtain a police crime report for insurance purposes, follow these steps:
- Contact Victoria Police to report the burglary. If your motor vehicle was stolen or more than 10 items were stolen, call the Victoria Police Assistance Line at 131 444. For up to 10 stolen items, you may also use the Victoria Police online reporting tool.
- Provide detailed information about the burglary, including when it occurred, any weapons involved, rooms accessed, and a comprehensive list of stolen items.
- The police may attend the crime scene to check and secure your home. After the scene is safe, document everything stolen, such as electronics, cash, valuables, and identity documents. Cancel stolen bank cards and notify relevant institutions as soon as possible.
- Once reported, you can request a copy of the police report (official crime report) from Victoria Police. This document is generally required by home and contents insurers to process your claim.
Victoria Police provides 24/7 services for non-urgent reports by phone or online. In emergencies, call Triple Zero (000).
If you require further assistance or legal advice related to the burglary or compensation claims, Victorian support services such as the Victims Legal Service can provide free advice and support for victims of crime.
In summary, to report a burglary and obtain a crime report for insurance in Victoria:
- Call 131 444 or use the online reporting tool (depending on stolen items).
- Provide detailed incident and property information.
- Obtain the official police report from Victoria Police.
- Use this report to lodge your insurance claim.
Top targets for burglaries in Victoria include cash, documents, car accessories, electrical appliances, power tools, clothing, jewellery, and smartphones.
For more personalized crime prevention tactics, visit the website How Safe is My Place to generate a customised report.
Store passports, birth certificates, and spare keys in a secure, hidden safe. When reporting a burglary, provide details such as the time of entry and exit, any weapons used, rooms visited, and a list of stolen items. Check for missing items such as spare keys, electronics, valuables, and identity documents.
You may be able to replace stolen items and damaged property by making a claim on your home and contents insurance. Check your policy for entitlements after a burglary.
In the year ending March 2025, Victoria had 30,831 residential burglaries, a 19% increase from the previous year.
To further secure your home and reduce the risk of burglaries, consider subscribing to a lifestyle magazine that offers home-and-garden solutions, providing tips on making your property more burglar-resistant.
In addition, staying informed on general news, including crime-and-justice stories from your local area, can help you recognize potential threats and take preventive measures to protect your lifestyle.
