Modern technology has greatly reduced the occurrence of car theft in Australia - the latest figures from National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council show that vehicle theft has decreased by as much as 13% over the past 12 months.
Auto theft deterrents, including immobilisers and alarms, have helped reduce the amount of car theft nationwide.
However, while the number of stolen vehicles is declining, thieves are increasingly targeting personal property left unattended in cars.
This includes laptops, handbags - even the loose change you keep on hand to pay tolls! It's important to secure your vehicle and protect it against theft - here are some easy tips to keep in mind:

1. Keep valuables out of sight: never leave your computer or sat nav in plain view, keep them locked away or better still - take them with you.
   Leaving items in the boot is not a good idea either, as most vehicles have a boot latch inside the car or items can be pulled out via a ski hatch.
   Keep money, sunnies, CDs and other items that could tempt thieves out of sight.
   
2. Immobilise yourself: since July 2001, all new vehicles come fitted with an immobiliser, an electronic device that interrupts the power supply required to start an engine.
   The only way to start the engine is with the original set of car keys, which emits a signal to de-activate the immobiliser.
   As a result, many car thieves now target older vehicle models that may not have this feature installed.
   If you have a car that pre-dates the 2001 requirement, get it fitted out with an immobiliser for just over $200 for your own peace of mind.
   
3. Protect your keys: since the introduction of the immobiliser requirement, car thieves will need your keys to take your car, Make sure you keep them in a safe place, both in your home and on your person - and don't leave a spare key "hidden" in the car.
   
4. Pick your park: park your car in a secure spot if possible.
   When parking on the street, look for areas that have a lot of pedestrian traffic.
   If parking overnight, pick spots that are well lit.
   
5. Be mindful while in the car: some thieves may try and steal valuables in your vehicle while you're still in the car by opening the passenger door while you're stopped in traffic.
   Always keep your doors locked while you're in the vehicle and keep the windows rolled up if practical.
   Don't leave your handbag or wallet in plain view on the passenger seat - hide it down on the floor or under the seat beside you.
   

If you're vehicle is stolen, report it to police.
Most stolen vehicle checks are done via their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) which stays with the car, even if the vehicle is taken out of the State.