Hendra, a suburb with fewer than 5,000 residents, has recorded one of the highest car theft totals in Queensland, with police data showing 735 vehicles stolen, placing the suburb at the top of a statewide list and raising concerns among residents about vehicle security.
The figure was highlighted in a Queensland Police Service crime data report, which found vehicle thefts across the state had climbed to their highest monthly levels since early 2024.
Police statistics show the offence category — unlawful use of a motor vehicle — had 1,797 victims statewide in November alone, one of the highest monthly totals recorded since crime data began in 2001.
While overall victim numbers for vehicle theft in 2025 were slightly lower than the same period in 2024, police data indicate the trend began rising again from August. Statewide figures show 16,805 victims of unlawful use of a motor vehicle between January and November 2025.
Vehicle theft figures are recorded based on where the offence occurs, meaning suburbs with large numbers of parked vehicles or commercial areas can record higher totals even if many offenders live elsewhere.
In Hendra, the statistics stand out because of the suburb’s size. Census data shows the area has just under 5,000 residents, yet its stolen-vehicle count placed it ahead of much larger suburbs across Queensland.
Motoring group RACQ has previously stated that technology could play a role in reducing thefts, noting some modern vehicles can detect erratic driving and may eventually be able to recognise when they have been stolen and limit how the vehicle can be driven.
Community support groups have also reported an increase in people seeking help after vehicle thefts, particularly in cases where victims reported being threatened during the offence.
Queensland Police say they continue to target vehicle theft through enforcement, prevention and disruption strategies.
Published 10-March-2026
