This is a great question, particularly given the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data confirming that theft has surged to a 21-year high[i].

According to the ABS, theft victims (excluding motor vehicles) increased by 6% in 2024, reaching the highest number recorded since 2003.

With break-ins and theft across Australia trending upwards, the summer holiday period, when families travel or spend extended time away from their properties, creates ideal conditions for criminal activity. That said, by putting a few simple measures in place now, you can help ensure the only person sneaking onto your property during the holiday season is the jolly man in red.

Where windows face the street or are easily visible from outside, placing a big, well-decorated tree in full view may not be the best move. As it did for the bumbling crooks in the Home Alone movies, it simply highlights your property as an obvious target. Particularly if you’re going away, make sure you keep presents and gifts out of sight, or even close the curtains on highly exposed windows.

Straightforward steps such as installing deadbolts, securing windows with keyed locks, and installing rods in sliding-door tracks can make your property significantly more challenging to access.

Also, lock power boxes, garden sheds and side gates, before you take a summer vacation, as burglars often look for tools to access your property or for ways to disable lighting or alarms. Securing these areas around your property is essential. And if you’re unsure about your property’s level of security, a professional locksmith can provide expert advice so you can enjoy the festive season with confidence.

Maintaining the appearance of an occupied home remains one of the most effective deterrents. Keep blinds in their regular positions, use timers for lights or televisions, and install sensor lighting around the perimetre of the property. Smart-home devices such as Google Home or Nest can also play music or switch lights on and off using routines or schedules, helping create the illusion that someone is home.

On the issue of using technology to keep the crooks at bay this holiday season, consider investing in smart surveillance cameras and other security gadgets. These devices can help savvy property owners stay connected to their properties, even when they’re interstate or overseas.

Don’t be afraid to take advantage of the power of neighbourhood watch. Ask a friendly local to collect your mail or put your bins out to give the impression that the property is occupied. And don’t forget to trade mobile phone numbers with your friendly neighbour.

At the same time, pause regular deliveries, and avoid leaving any messages, or use social media to let people know you are away - which for many of us can be easier said than done. Maybe wait until you return to start posting travel pics from your favourite Japanese ski resort.

If you are really worried and your budget allows, it is possible to hire a trustworthy house sitter, to stay at your property while you’re away - and if you’ve got pets, they can also look after Fido and Tabby, which might help fund the house sitter’s fee.

Additional home-security tips

• Don’t leave spare keys in obvious places
• Store jewellery and small valuables in a safe-deposit box
• Photograph and record valuables for insurance
• Destroy packaging from new electronics instead of leaving it visible.

Despite your best efforts, a burglar may still slip through your best property guards. So, it pays to be adequately insured. Whilst the insurance industry regularly cites that more than 80% of property owners are underinsured[ii], with the summer holiday break fast approaching, it might be worth using the many building and contents calculators offered by the insurers to check your level of insurance cover or chat with a helpful financial specialist from Our Broker on  1800 913 677.

Putting the proper measures in place now means you can relax with family and friends, knowing your property is protected from the crooks this holiday season.

[i] https://www.abs.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/theft-reaches-21-year-high

[ii] https://generalinsuranceagencies.com.au/2025/08/13/underinsurance-in-property-a-growing-concern/