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Porch pirate statistics

1 in 5 Aussies have had their parcel lost or stolen in the past year.

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By

Madeleine Gracie

Updated

Fact checked

Quick summary

  • 21% of Australians, or an estimated 4.2 million people, had their parcel lost or stolen in the past year.
  • The average value of missing parcels is $129.
  • Worryingly, 5% of Aussies had their parcel stolen before it reached them.
  • 26% of Gen Z say they've had a parcel go missing, while just 15% of Baby Boomers say the same.

How many Aussies are victims of parcel theft?

  • 1 in 5 Australians (21%), or an estimated 4.2 million people, have had a parcel lost or stolen over the past year.
  • 5% of Aussies had their package stolen before it reached them.
  • 12% said their parcel went missing in transit, while 4% had their package delivered to the wrong address.

Who is most likely to fall victim to parcel theft?

  • Gen Z are the most likely generation to have had a parcel go missing or stolen.
  • 26% of Gen Z's say they've had a package go missing and 7% have been victims of parcel theft.
  • Baby Boomers are the least likely to have had a missing parcel.
  • Just 15% of Boomers say they've lost a delivery and only 1% say they've had a package stolen in the past year.
  • Women and men are almost just as likely to have had a parcel go missing (22% vs 20%).

How much are Aussies losing to parcel theft?

  • The average value of missing parcels is $129. With 21% of Aussies having lost a parcel in the past year, that's an estimated $540 million lost in missing parcels.
  • Gen X has the highest average value for missing parcels at $178, while for Gen Y it's $117.
  • Gen Z's packages have the lowest average value at just $110.

Tips on how to avoid parcel theft

  • Use tracking: Make sure you request sign-on delivery if you're going to be home.
  • Up your home security by installing cameras: Cameras are great for your home insurance and will capture anything suspicious if someone tries to steal from you. They can also help to reduce the likelihood of theft, depending on the house you have.
  • Opt for a parcel locker: These are free to use with Australia Post and ensure your package is secure until you have a chance to pick it up.

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