In early November, local residents attended a Community Safety Workshop in Lane Cove following several concerning incidents. Police and local community leaders stressed the importance of staying alert, securing homes properly, and reporting suspicious behaviour early.
The holiday season can bring increased risk of break-ins, theft, scams and road incidents. Using information from the NSW Police Force alongside our local experience, this is your practical 2025 safety guide for the festive season.
Home Security When Travelling
The weeks around Christmas and New Year are often high risk for burglary, especially when homes are left unattended. NSW Police recommend taking extra steps beyond simply locking your front door.
They advise ensuring all external gates and perimeter fences are secured. A faulty fence or unlocked car gate can be an easy entry point for intruders.
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They also suggest trimming back shrubs, trees and hedges so windows and doors are visible from the street. This removes hiding spots and increases passive surveillance.
Strong locks matter. Make sure doors are solid-core and fitted with deadlocks, and ensure perimeter windows have key-operated locks or additional security features. Consider window film, laminated glass or security grilles—especially on ground-floor windows or easily reachable areas.
Before leaving home—even for a short trip—check every entry point. Set timers or use smart plugs for lights to create the appearance of occupancy. Ask a trusted neighbour to collect mail, take bins in, or even park a car in your driveway.
NSW Police’s holiday guide lists these as some of the most effective deterrents.
A helpful resource is the NSW Police booklet Protect Your Home.
Securing Valuables and Preparing for the Unexpected
NSW Police recommend recording serial numbers and photographing jewellery, collectables and sentimental items. This helps enormously with identification if something is stolen. More details can be found in their Holiday Safety and Security (Residential) section.
If you have a garage, shed, or roller-door entry, double-lock them and consider adding padlocks or deadbolts. Garden tools, ladders and equipment should be stored securely—burglars often use them to gain entry.
For extra peace of mind, consider a monitored alarm or CCTV system. Today’s affordable smart cameras can record evidence, send alerts and deter intruders. NSW Police include these as recommended home-hardening measures.
More information: NSW Police – Leaving Home for the Holidays
Parcel Deliveries & Online Shopping Risks
The festive season brings a surge in online ordering—and unfortunately, parcel theft. Rather than leaving deliveries outside in plain view, consider using parcel lockers, secure collection points or asking a neighbour to receive them.
For high-value items, select delivery options requiring a signature or encrypted collection. Australia Post and many couriers offer alternative drop-off points or secure locker services.
ITC has previously reported several incidents of parcel theft during busy periods, so take steps early.
Be Alert to Scams and Digital Threats
Christmas scams are becoming more sophisticated. Scammers frequently impersonate delivery companies, banks or government agencies, claiming urgent issues that require immediate action. These often aim to trick you into clicking malicious links.
NSW Police and the Australian Cyber Security Centre warn residents never to:
- click unexpected links
- share banking codes
- provide personal information over the phone
If you’re buying or selling through online marketplaces, verify the seller carefully, avoid upfront deposits unless using secure platforms, and stick to trusted payment methods. ITC has covered several Lane Cove scam reports throughout the year.
More information: NSW Police – Frauds, Scams & Cybercrime
Road Safety and Getting Around
Holiday traffic, festive events and late-night outings increase risks on local roads. Transport NSW’s holiday road safety advice encourages drivers to plan ahead, avoid driving after drinking, and use public transport or rideshare when needed.
Allow extra travel time, especially when roads are busy, and be mindful of increased pedestrian activity, cyclists and families walking through village areas. A little patience and slower driving go a long way.
Check out Transport NSW – Holiday Driving.
Report Suspicious Behaviour Immediately
Quick community reporting makes a big difference. NSW Police urge residents to report any suspicious activity, even if it seems minor. Early reports help police identify trends, respond quickly and prevent further incidents.
- Emergency: 000
- Non-urgent: Police Assistance Line 131 444
- Anonymous reports: Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000
- Online reporting: NSW Police Community Portal
ITC also has a full guide: Report Lane Cove Crime and Suspicious Behaviour Online
