Motor vehicle theft is rising rapidly in Victoria, so which areas are being targeted, where are thieves looking and what can you do to help prevent your car becoming one of the statistics?
Car Security
How driveway bollards can help protect your car from theft
Driveway bollards can help deter thieves and provide an extra layer of security. Here’s how to choose and install the best bollards to help protect your vehicle from theft.
While bollards are often seen in public and commercial spaces, rising car theft rates mean that both homeowners and small business owners are increasingly installing them on their properties to protect their vehicles and deter opportunistic crime.
According to data from the Crime Statistics Agency, 33,018 vehicles were reported stolen for the year ending June 2025. Alarmingly, that figure is up 42.1 per cent on the previous year. Even more worryingly, 12,969 of these car thefts happened at home.
In addition, RACV’s General Manager of Insurance and Roadside, Bill Bloodworth, says the most recent Insurance Statistics Australia statistics show that a claim is lodged every 18 minutes for car theft in Australia.
“Securing your vehicle is crucial to prevent it from being stolen," Bloodworth says. "If you can, park your vehicle in a secured garage. If your vehicle is parked in a driveway, consider proactive security measures such as an OBD port lock, steering wheel lock, or even bollards."
For street parking, always lock up, choose a well-lit area, remove valuables and use visible deterrents such as a steering wheel lock, and consider installing an alarm or immobiliser for added protection.
More: Burglary, car theft and retail crime rises across Victoria
Why install driveway bollards to protect your car?
Bollards have long been a familiar sight in public areas, where they safeguard pedestrians and property. Increasingly, homeowners are discovering that these sturdy barriers are just as effective at protecting vehicles from opportunistic thieves.
Installing driveway bollards create a clear, physical obstacle that makes it far more difficult for anyone to steal your car. This added layer of security acts as a powerful deterrent. The harder you make it for someone to target your vehicle, the less attractive it becomes as a target. Bollards send a clear message: stealing this car simply isn’t worth the risk.
More: How to prevent car theft and protect your car
Are driveway bollards legal in Australia?
Yes, if your private property includes parking, whether that’s a garage or driveway, then you are legally allowed to protect that space with security bollards.
While bollards are legal in Victoria, any installation must comply with local council rules. Contact your local authority to ensure your plans comply with regulations. rolling around and causing damage to your car's interior.
More: How to improve the security of your driveway or carport
While commonly seen in public spaces, bollards can also protect your car at home. Image: Getty
Types of driveway bollards: which is right for you?
There are a variety of options when choosing the best bollard security system for your property, each with its own appeal.
Fixed bollards
Fixed bollards in concrete or steel work best if you are primarily concerned with personal security, rather than protecting your car.
They can be installed along your property’s perimeter, creating a permanent barrier that reduces the risk of a road accident affecting you, your home or garden.
Fixed bollards will prevent unauthorised parking on your property, but also limit your access.
Removable bollards
Removable bollards are a strong option if you are primarily concerned with protecting your vehicle from theft but still need free access to your driveway.
Generally, a sleeve or socket is installed in your driveway or garage floor. Then you manually insert a bollard that’s stored somewhere secure – perhaps in your entrance hall, shed or locked garage – until you need it.
This is a good option if you only come and go once or twice a day. Ensure you can easily carry the bollard, bearing in mind that your capability may change over time.
Retractable bollards
Retractable bollards sink into a hole when not in use, making them less physically and aesthetically obtrusive.
They’re a great option if you’ll be coming and going a lot, or if more than one person uses your driveway or garage. Again, check that you can manage raising and lowering them.
Automatic bollards
Automatic bollards are the best option if you have concerns about physically negotiating a sturdy and quite possibly heavy bollard, allowing electrical assistance to raise and lower them at will, generally via a remote control system in your car.
Retailers are increasingly installing bollards to protect storefronts and deter vehicle-based theft. Image: Getty
Installation tips and considerations
While it’s possible to install bollards yourself, using a professional installer will ensure safety, compliance, and a secure fit. For removable bollards, a small hole is required for the receiver unit, which is usually secured with cement. That has to set before applying the removable bollard.
If you want an automated solution, that usually requires a more intricate installation. The excavated hole will likely need to be larger to accommodate the electronic system and require greater drainage.
How much do driveway bollards cost?
Depending on what type you choose, individual bollards cost anywhere between $200 and $2000.
You’ll have to pay installation fees, which could cost between $250-$750 per bollard.
Can small businesses install security bollards?
Yes, it’s legal to install security bollards at your business. But if you're renting the space, you’ll need your landlord’s approval.
Again, it pays to check with your local council that the bollard installation meets their standards.
More: Retail theft increases in Victoria: The most common stolen items revealed
Are bollards enough? Combining security measures for best results
In a nutshell, bollards are a great idea if you want to secure your car and property, but you're likely to get the best results by combining several safety measures.
It’s worth considering installing automatic lighting in your parking area, as this alone will dissuade many opportunistic criminals. CCTV cameras, particularly when highly visible, work well in tandem with sufficient lighting.
If you have a garage, research the best garage door locks to help prevent car theft. Remember to always lock your garage, rather than relying solely on external or internal bollards.
Items left in your car are also a target for opportunistic thieves, so make sure you remove all valuables from your car when it’s not in use, and consider investing in a steering wheel lock as well. Any physical sign of amplified security measures helps.
The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations. For copies, visit racv.com.au. As distributor, RACV Insurance Services Pty Ltd AFS Licence No. 230039 receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. Product issued by Insurance Manufacturers of Australia Pty Ltd ABN 93 004 208 084 AFS Licence No. 227678
