Alarming rise in break-ins revealed as Aussies head off on holiday

Holidaymakers risk more than a chocolate hangover this Easter, according to new research.

With school holidays underway and many Aussies heading off for Easter breaks, worrying crime data highlights the importance of securing your home and reviewing your insurance.

New figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) show an increase in home break-ins, with more than 217,600 households targeted during the 2023–24 financial year — the highest number recorded since before the pandemic.¹www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/crime-and-justice/crime-victimisation/latest-release

iSelect Comparison Expert, Sophie Ryan, says the release of this new crime data comes as many families set off for coastal escapes or bush getaways.

“As you’re packing, don’t forget the Easter treats — but I’d also encourage travellers to check their home and car insurance policies,” Sophie said.

“While most people are focused on finding tent poles or charging the kids’ devices, many forget to check whether their home insurance still reflects the current value of their property and belongings.”

Sophie added that new research from iSelect found nearly half of Australians haven’t reviewed their home insurance in over a year — and one in four admit it’s been more than two years, or never at all.²iSelect commissioned i-Link Research to conduct an online survey between 14th to 19th November 2024. The sample is n=1,545 Australians.  The data is weighted to represent the population by age, state and gender, and is representative of all Australian adults 18+.

“It’s easy to assume you’re covered just because you have a policy, but a lot can change in a year, You might’ve bought new tech, upgraded appliances, or done a renovation and If it’s not included in your policy, it you may not be covered.” Sophie said.

Sophie also says that if your holiday includes driving, it’s worth reviewing your car insurance.

“A Comprehensive Car Insurance policy can help cover the costs caused by weather damage, vandalism, or accidents. Yet many Australians may still rely solely on Compulsory Third Party insurance,” she said.

“Spending a few minutes reviewing your policies could not only save you money but also help avoid major headaches if something goes wrong while you’re away.”

iSelect’s top tips for saving money this Easter

1. Review your plans and policies regularly – Needs and circumstances change over time. When it comes to insurance (such as health insurance, home and or contents insurance or car insurance), regularly ask yourself what you need to be covered for and whether your current policy or plan stacks up. You could be paying for things you don’t need, and not covered for things you do.

2. Shop around – Some Aussie households may think ‘loyalty’ is rewarded when it comes to insurance and or utility providers, but that’s not always true. In fact, providers often offer better rates or premiums to attract new customers than those available to existing customers. Whether it’s your energy plan, home and contents insurance, health insurance policy, or home loan deal, a comparison service such as iSelect can see if we can help find you any lost savings.

3. Consider the other ways you could save – Some insurance companies may give you a discount on your premiums if you opt for a higher excess. Also, around certain times of the year, insurers (particularly health funds) may offer incentives, and that could be a good time to shop around and take advantage of any deals and offers.  Remember, though, a good deal doesn’t necessarily mean the cheapest. Make sure any policy or plan is suited to your needs.

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iSelect General Pty Limited ABN 90 131 798 126, AFS Licence Number: 334115. Any advice provided by iSelect is of a general nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You need to consider the appropriateness of any information or general advice iSelect gives you, having regard to your personal situation, before acting on iSelect’s advice or purchasing any policy. You should consider iSelect’s Financial Services Guide which provides information about our services and your rights as a client of iSelect. iSelect receives commission for each policy sold that is a percentage of the premium or a flat fee. Ask us for more details before we provide you with any services.