Rural Crime Prevention

Rural crime refers to illegal activities that impact rural areas. Common types of rural crime include:

• Theft of machinery, equipment and farm supplies
• Livestock and crop theft
• Break and enter
• Trespassing
• Vandalism and damage to property
• Illegal hunting and shooting
• Fly tipping (illegal waste disposal)

Rural crime can include:

1. Opportunistic: Offenders typically target items that are easily accessible and present minimal risk, preferring situations that allow for quick access with minimal effort.
2. Organised: Involves planned crimes, often targeting high-value assets and typically carried out by multiple offenders. 

Both forms of rural crime can significantly impact the livelihood and safety of rural communities

The Queensland Police Service has developed a variety of practical and accessible resources to support landholders in safeguarding their properties. The following resources are available:

• Fuel Tank Security 
• Machinery and Equipment Security 
• Livestock Security 
• Rural Crime Prevention Guidebook

Many crimes in rural areas go unreported, yet every piece of information is valuable. Reporting crime and suspicious activity not only helps to safeguard your property and personal safety, but also helps to protect the security and safety of your community.

If you believe a crime is happening or if you see or hear of unusual movements of stock, vehicles or people, it is important to report it as soon as possible. Your report may provide crucial insights or be the final piece of information needed for police to solve broader cases and take appropriate action against offenders.

• If a crime is happening now call Triple Zero (000). 
• In not, think Policelink and report online at police.qld.gov.au/policelink-reporting.
• To report information anonymously, call Crime Stoppers Queensland on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersqld.com.au. 

When reporting, please provide detailed information, such as:

• Time, date and location.
• Descriptions of vehicles involved (for example, make, model, colour, or registration number).
• Descriptions of individuals involved (for example, age, height, clothing, or distinguishing features).

For more guidance, refer to the Giving a Good Description Information Sheet.

Rural and Stock Crime Squad (RSCS)

The Rural and Stock Crime Squad is a specialised unit within the Queensland Police Service, dedicated to the investigation and prevention of rural and stock-related crime across the state. With teams strategically based in key regional areas, the squad actively engage with local communities and partner with government and non-government organisations to develop and deliver rural crime prevention strategies, supporting residents to be safe and feel safe.

The regional team locations include:

• Forest Hill
• Toowoomba 
• Roma
• Charleville
• Kingaroy
• Longreach
• Rockhampton
• Charters Towers
• Cloncurry
• Mareeba

• Community Camera Alliance: Register the location of your CCTV system to assist police investigations. 
• Stolen Vehicle Portal: Browse the portal to assist in the identification of stolen vehicles.
• Crime Prevention Information Sheets: Downloadable crime prevention resources available in multiple languages. 

• ConnectCare provides case management and counselling support for individuals impacted by non-violent property crime.
• Victim Assist Queensland helps victims of violent crime in Queensland recover by providing financial assistance, offering information and upholding victims’ rights.
• The Rural Aid Mental Health and Wellbeing Team provide free and confidential mental health support to farmers and their families through trained counsellors based in rural towns across Australia.  
• Farmer to Lifeline Farmer support line offers tailored and confidential support from fellow farmers who understand the unique challenges of rural life, providing a listening ear and practical strategies to help manage stress.