Queensland drivers urged to nab engine immobiliser discount before trial runs out
10/13/2024 06:30 PM
Authorities are encouraging drivers to make use of the $500 subsidy program aimed at reducing vehicle theft in specific Queensland suburbs.
UPDATE, 14 October 2024: A trial offering free engine immobilisers to help tackle car thefts in Queensland has been extended.
The trial was initially due to run out at the end of June this year, but Queensland Police has now extended the cut-off to 31 December.
There have been no reports of a vehicle fitted with an immobiliser being stolen in Queensland, with the devices preventing thefts on several occasions, according to police.
Since the program was launched in August 2023, more than 20,000 vouchers for the crime-fighting tech have been handed out, with around 8900 redeemed as of 3 October.
The majority of the uptake has been in Townsville, followed by Cairns and then Mt Isa.
Our original story continues on below unchanged.
12 May 2024: Queensland Police are encouraging drivers to apply for the state's engine immobiliser subsidy program before time runs out in a bid to tackle car thefts in the state.
Since 2022, Queensland Police has offered a $500 voucher to members of the public to go towards getting an engine immobiliser fitted to their vehicle "to help reduce car thefts and keep the community safe”.
Now it has revealed just seven per cent of the original 20,000 vouchers are remaining, and is advising drivers to get in quick before the trial concludes on 30 June 2024.
The trial is being applied across specific suburbs of Mt Isa, Townsville, and Cairns – with more than 18,700 vouchers acquired so far.
As of 29 April 2024, more than 6000 vouchers have been redeemed at approved and qualified installers.
According to police, three vehicle thefts have already been prevented by engine immobilisers installed under the trial.
Townsville District Acting Superintendent Dean Cavanagh said the subsidy program is a theft-prevention tool helping police and locals prevent crimes committed against personal property.
“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 in a media statement.
“This subsidy gives North Queenslanders another tool to help protect their property and work with us as we continue to target property crime.”
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