Victoria Police are urging farmers to take simple but effective steps to protect their properties this summer.
The Victoria Police Farm Crime Coordination Unit is dedicated to addressing crimes that affect rural communities, including livestock theft, fuel and machinery theft, tool theft, and illegal hunting or shooting.
Unit Inspector Paul Hargreaves said their primary focus was on crime prevention and enhancing safety and security on farms.
"This year, we've witnessed far too many incidents resulting in the loss of animals, vehicles and equipment," he said. "Of particular concern is firearm theft, which poses a serious threat to public safety when these weapons fall into the wrong hands."
To help protect your farm, Victoria Police recommend the following simple but effective steps:
Locking gates, sheds and machinery and securing tools;
Counting and checking stock regularly;
Installing security signage, simple CCTV and other tech that identifies illegal entry to your property; and,
Working with neighbours to identify and report suspicious activity around farms.
If you are a firearm owner, please consider:
The compliance of your safe storage with the Firearms Act;
The location of your safe, with the preferred option at an occupied residence;
The security and safe keeping of your safe keys;
The location of tools, including cordless equipment, that could assist an offender gaining entry; and,
Your need to maintain ownership of firearms. If farmers want to surrender a firearm, there is a current amnesty in Victoria.
Inspector Hargreaves also reminded farmers of farm safety, especially during the busy summer months.
He said increased activity on farms during hay cutting, cropping and stock transportation heightens the risk of accidents involving machinery or vehicles, as well as the potential for fires.
"While accidents can happen, the serious injuries or fatalities that may result often lead us to reflect on what could have been done differently," Inspector Hargreaves said. "Please take the time to plan your activities carefully and prioritise safety for yourself, your family, and your workers.
In an emergency, always call 000. Anyone with any information about crimes can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au