Queensland Police are encouraging community members to apply for and redeem Vehicle Immobiliser vouchers while they are still available, with just seven per cent of vouchers remaining.
At least three reports to police indicate an attempted car theft was stopped by a vehicle immobiliser installed under the Secondary Vehicle Immobiliser Subsidy Trial.
The State Government is providing a $500 subsidy voucher to vehicle owners to help reduce car thefts and keep the community safe.
Since launching in August 2023, more than 18,700 residents from Cairns, Townsville and Mount Isa have cashed in on the offer with 93 per cent of vouchers now secured and 36 per cent redeemed and installed.
With less than two months left in the trial, Townsville District Acting Superintendent Dean Cavanagh is encouraging North Queenslanders to take up a voucher and play a part in crime prevention.
"While police are out day and night working to protect our communities, this is one way you can work with us to prevent crime and protect your property," Acting Superintendent Cavanagh said.
"While it is disappointing that three people were victims of break ins, it is reassuring to see that their immobilisers meant their vehicles were safe.
"The vouchers have been in high demand and there are limited numbers left.
"We encourage community members to go online and apply and urge anyone with a voucher to book their installation in as soon as possible.
"Our first priority is keeping the community safe, and this subsidy gives North Queenslanders another tool to help protect their property and work with us as we continue to target property crime."
Glen from Burdell in Townsville said his vehicle immobiliser stopped an attempted thief following a break in October.
"I'm so glad I got the engine immobiliser fitted, it has already prevented my car from being stolen," Glen said.
"It gives me peace of mind and a lot more security, I think it's a great initiative."
Mick from Bayview Heights in Cairns also prevented thieves from stealing his car in January.
After installing an engine immobiliser, his car was pushed down the street but was left abandoned when the immobiliser stopped it from starting.
"It gives me peace of mind, I still hide everything of a nighttime but I know that they're not going to be able to get that car," Mick Said.
As at April 29, 2024:
Total vouchers obtained: 18,723
Total vouchers redeemed: 6,736
Townsville: Vouchers obtained 9,272 Vouchers redeemed 3,018
Cairns: Vouchers obtained 8,867 Vouchers redeemed 3,526
Mount Isa: Vouchers obtained 584 Vouchers redeemed 192
More information about the trial is available on the QPS Website: https://www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/vehicle-immobiliser-subsidy-trial
For those who received a voucher, but no longer need it, please email [email protected] and your voucher can be cancelled and re-allocated.
Vision: Michael from Bayview Heights https://r2.mypolice.qld.gov.au/uploads/2024/04/19/044556_vehicle-immobiliser-v3.mp4
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
