KEY FINDINGS

The 2017–18 Crime Victimisation Survey found that almost all Australian households (97% or 9.1 million) had at least one selected security measure installed.

The type of security measures installed varied depending on the dwelling type. The most common security measures for:

• houses or semi-detached houses were a door with a security screen (72%), a door with a deadlock (70%) and outside sensor lighting (62%)
• flats or apartments were a door with a deadlock (62%) secure entry to the complex (56%) and a window with a keyed lock (51%).

Approximately 44% of Australian households (4.1 million) were classified as having enhanced security, while 53% (5.0 million) had some security.^Endnote1

Approximately one in eight households (13% or 1.2 million) installed or upgraded at least one security measure in the 12 months prior to interview.

Approximately one in ten households (11% or 1.1 million) wanted to improve their home security but were unable to do so.

Just under one third of Australians (30% or 5.8 million) reported being more aware of their environment and potential threats to their personal safety when at home, compared to 12 months earlier.

ENDNOTE

Endnote 1 Enhanced security includes households with at least one window lock and at least one deadlock AND at least one other security measure. Some security includes households with ‘basic security’ or ‘some but less than basic security’, meaning the household has at least one window lock and at least one deadlock OR at least one other security measure.