Tradie tool theft from utes on the rise

The Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) is warning tradies to secure their tools, after data revealed thefts surged in the state last year.

According to data from the Crime Statistics Agency, over $33 million worth of hand and power tools were stolen in Victoria last year.

This totalled 18,626 power tools and 14,911 hand tools, an increase of 12 per cent in the total number of items stolen.

In response to this significant rise, the RACV is urging Victorian tradies to increase security for their vehicles and properties.

Tool theft can be a major financial setback for individual contractors, sole traders and small business owners, leading to reduced work capacity and potential lost earning.

Bill Bloodworth, RACV General Manager Home, suggests using a robust truck bed or lockable toolbox anchored to your vehicle with a strong security chain when possible.

He also advises tradies to mark their tools with identification details, such as their full name or driver’s licence number, to make them easier to describe or identify if they go missing.

Keeping a detailed inventory of tools, including their serial numbers, will also make it easier to file an insurance claim should they get stolen.

Additionally, tradies are encouraged to use small GPS trackers on high-value items.

One simple tip is to simply make your vehicle and its contents less of a target by securing them as best as possible, preferably in a locked garage.

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