News > News > bounceback

Operation Bounce Back: 130 free immobilisers on offer

AS PART of Operation Bounce Back, the City of Fremantle has 130 free immobilisers on offer to local residents.

A National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council initiative, the vehicle engine immobilisers are available for vehicles that don’t already have them installed.

City of Fremantle Community Safety and Ranger Coordinator Cameron Bartkowski said immobilisers are an important part of any crime prevention strategy, helping people with older cars who are more at risk of theft.

“All vehicle owners need to be vigilant in protecting their cars from being stolen and take precautions against what is often an opportunistic crime,” he said. “But there is a perception in the community that ‘it won’t happen to me’.

“Many people think vehicles are stolen by highly organised gangs, targeting prestige vehicles made in the past few years – but the reality is that it’s usually a common family sedan, more than 15 years old.

“Cars are often stolen right from under the owner’s nose, simply because unsecured vehicles provide an easy opportunity for would-be thieves.

“Owners of older vehicles can minimise the risk of theft with simple preventative measures but, unfortunately, many of these cars have never had immobilisers fitted.

“The City of Fremantle was successful in obtaining funding for 130 free immobilisers under Operation Bounce Back and this is our way of helping the local community combat thieves who target at-risk groups.”

According to NMVTRC statistics, the City of Fremantle recorded 308 vehicle thefts between July 2006 and June 2007 – the top four suburban hotspots were Fremantle with 172 thefts, Beaconsfield (26), Hilton (26) and North Fremantle (25).

Fifty-one per cent of vehicles stolen were manufactured before 1992 and the Ford Falcon (1984-1992), Holden Commodore (1985-1991) and Ford Laser (1988-1990) were the most popular makes to be targetted.

In WA, it was made compulsory from July 1, 1999, to fit an immobiliser when applying to register or transfer a vehicle.

“Operation Bounce Back is a way of helping those with vehicles that have not received immobilisers under the state-based scheme,” Mr Bartkowski said.

“We understand how distressing it can be when a car is stolen and the disruptions it can cause by having to arrange alternative modes of transport for work and family.

“By confronting the issue of car theft and providing a means of assistance, we can work together to help prevent this crime.”

Residents across the City of Fremantle and its suburbs should call 9432 9905 to find out how they can receive a free immobiliser. To be eligible, you must have proof of address indicating you're a resident.

The closing date for registering interest in an immobiliser is April 30, 2008.