Youth car crime drops in Queensland

The number of teenagers committing car-related crimes in Queensland has fallen by almost 8 per cent, new police data shows.

According to Queensland Police, reported offences committed against property – which include vehicle theft, unlawful use of a vehicle, and breaking and entering – have declined by 7.8 per cent, from 11,163 in the first quarter of 2023 down to 10,294 between January and March this year.  

Overall crime by youth in the state is down 10 per cent over the same time period.

The latest crime data was shared during a conference held in Brisbane last week bringing together several government agencies tasked with tackling youth crime in the state.

“It is encouraging to see those efforts … by our frontline police are beginning to have an impact," Acting Assistant Commissioner Andrew Massingham said in a statement.

"We know this is just the start and are committed to continuing to tackle youth crime from every angle."

Acting Superintendent Rob Fleischer praised the "combined efforts" of different state agencies for their early intervention and prevention programs.

"Education, health, cultural, and sports programs and services that address the social issues that contribute to young people offending have the power to help redirect their behaviour, and stop them from heading further down the wrong path," he said.

"I commend every agency and service playing their part in early intervention strategies, as helping these young people means a safer community for all."

The fall in Queensland youth crime comes at the same time as vehicle-related offences committed by young offenders in Victoria have spiked – with Victoria Police revealing the number of car thefts at the hands of 14 to 17-year-olds rose by more than 52.7 per cent in 2023.