Williams Landing has topped the list of Melbourne’s burglary hotspots, an RACV analysis reveals.
An average of one in 25 houses in the 3027 postcode, which includes Williams Landing, was robbed during the 2013-14 financial year, making it the worst-hit suburb in the metropolitan area.
Across Wyndham, one in 59 homes was hit in the 3029 postcode, which covers Hoppers Crossing, Tarneit and Truganina. The figure was one in 66 in Wyndham Vale, one in 73 in Werribee and Point Cook, and one in 79 in Little River.
The data was compiled by the RACV using Victoria Police crime statistics and census data.
RACV general manager of home services Peter Brindley said although there was a slight improvement in the number of homes burgled across Victoria – one in 73 compared to one in 71 the previous year – many suburbs suffered an increase in burglaries.
“This is the third consecutive year Williams Landing has featured prominently among Melbourne’s most burgled suburbs,” he said.
Wyndham police crime prevention officer Leading Senior Constable Craig McDonald said a major factor in Williams Landing topping the list of most burgled suburbs was the high number of thefts from houses under construction.
“Builders are taking steps to install major appliances as late as possible to try and reduce thefts, but it’s still a factor,” he said.
“If you see any suspicious activity around new housing estates, particularly after normal business hours, don’t hesitate to report it to police. Simple security improvements, such as deadlocks on your front and back doors and locks on your windows, make a big difference.”
Mr Brindley agreed prevention was the best way to avoid the financial cost and trauma of home break-ins.
“Awareness of security should be a habit, not just an occasional thought,” he said. “As a routine, ensure that doors and windows are locked when you go out even for short periods and don’t forget to activate your alarm system.
“Lock your tools in a shed and don’t leave items around that could be used to break into your property – and don’t leave wallets, mobile phones, car keys and other valuables in sight and accessible on the kitchen bench or hallway table,” Mr Brindley said.
