{"id":1443,"date":"2026-02-25T11:15:31","date_gmt":"2026-02-25T11:15:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/?p=1443"},"modified":"2026-02-28T00:23:55","modified_gmt":"2026-02-28T00:23:55","slug":"home-security-protection","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/1443-home-security-protection.html","title":{"rendered":"How To Protect Your Home While Travelling Over Long Holidays In Australia"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>December in Australia means sunshine, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/1431-travel-around-australia.html\">road trips, and family holidays<\/a> \u2014 but it\u2019s also peak season for home burglaries. Around one in twenty Australian homes experiences a break\u2011in or attempted break\u2011in each year, and reports can spike by up to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.crimestatistics.vic.gov.au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">20% during the summer<\/a> holidays when many homes sit empty.<\/p>\n<p>Whether you live in a house, townhouse, or apartment, being away for days or weeks can leave your home vulnerable. With a few <a href=\"https:\/\/www.racv.com.au\/royalauto\/property\/insurance\/burglary-hotspots.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">practical, low\u2011cost steps<\/a>, you can travel knowing your home is safe and looked after.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_1552\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1552\" style=\"width: 696px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-1552\" src=\"http:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2026\/02\/pexels-grizzlybear-965878-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"696\" height=\"463\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2026\/02\/pexels-grizzlybear-965878-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2026\/02\/pexels-grizzlybear-965878-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2026\/02\/pexels-grizzlybear-965878-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2026\/02\/pexels-grizzlybear-965878-1536x1021.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2026\/02\/pexels-grizzlybear-965878-2048x1362.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2026\/02\/pexels-grizzlybear-965878-632x420.jpg 632w, https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2026\/02\/pexels-grizzlybear-965878-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2026\/02\/pexels-grizzlybear-965878-696x463.jpg 696w, https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2026\/02\/pexels-grizzlybear-965878-1068x710.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2026\/02\/pexels-grizzlybear-965878-1920x1277.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 696px) 100vw, 696px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-1552\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo by Jonathan Petersson: https:\/\/www.pexels.com\/photo\/semi-open-white-wooden-door-965878\/<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Why Christmas is peak burglary season<\/h2>\n<p>Australia slows down dramatically in late December. Millions of people head interstate, visit family, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.police.nsw.gov.au\/safety_and_prevention\/crime_prevention\/home_safety\/holiday_safety_and_security\/leaving_home_for_the_holidays\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">take long overseas trips<\/a>. Quiet streets, dark windows, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.police.vic.gov.au\/summer-and-holiday-safety\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">overflowing mailboxes<\/a> make it obvious when nobody is home. Couriers continue delivering packages, often leaving them in plain sight. Even <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/1130-australian-neighbours.html\">safe\u2011feeling neighbourhoods<\/a> change during the holidays \u2014 fewer residents mean fewer eyes watching for suspicious behaviour.<\/p>\n<h2>What burglars look for<\/h2>\n<p>Burglars rarely choose homes at random. They look for clear signs of absence:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Overflowing letterboxes<\/li>\n<li>Bins left out for days<\/li>\n<li>Curtains closed 24\/7<\/li>\n<li>No lights on after dark<\/li>\n<li>Packages piling up at the door<\/li>\n<li>Social media posts showing travel<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>More than <a href=\"https:\/\/www.crimestoppersvic.com.au\/current-focus\/aggravated-burglaries\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">60% of burglars<\/a> enter through <a href=\"https:\/\/crimsafe.com.au\/most-common-ways-burglars-enter-homes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">unlocked doors or windows<\/a>. Sliding doors and garages are common weak points. Most break\u2011ins take less than five minutes, which means visible deterrents matter more than expensive systems.<\/p>\n<h2>Make your home look lived\u2011in<\/h2>\n<p>Your goal isn\u2019t to fortify your home \u2014 it\u2019s to simulate normal activity.<\/p>\n<h3>Use light timers or smart bulbs<\/h3>\n<p>Set lights to turn on at dusk and off late at night. Choose rooms visible from outside, such as living areas or entryways. A motion\u2011sensor light near doors deters anyone snooping around.<\/p>\n<h3>Keep curtains in their usual position<\/h3>\n<p>Fully closed blinds during the day look suspicious. If you trust a neighbour, ask them to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.police.vic.gov.au\/preventing-home-burglaries\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">adjust curtains<\/a> occasionally to mimic normal patterns.<\/p>\n<h3>Manage your bins<\/h3>\n<p>Bins left out for days signal an empty home. Ask a neighbour to <a href=\"https:\/\/fleurieuregionalwasteauthority.com.au\/summer-peak-25-26\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">move them on and off the curb<\/a>. If you leave before bin night, place a small amount of rubbish inside so they don\u2019t look unused.<\/p>\n<h3>Hold or redirect your mail<\/h3>\n<p>Australia Post\u2019s Mail <a href=\"https:\/\/auspost.com.au\/receiving\/mail-redirection-mail-hold\/hold\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hold service<\/a> is ideal for holidays longer than a week. Ask someone to clear your letterbox regularly and avoid home deliveries before you travel.<\/p>\n<h3>Use driveway activity<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.police.sa.gov.au\/nhw\/home\/news\/secure-your-home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">A car in the driveway<\/a> \u2014 yours or a neighbour\u2019s \u2014 is a powerful deterrent. Even tyre marks or occasional movement suggests someone is home.<\/p>\n<h2>Secure doors, windows, and garages<\/h2>\n<p>Front and back doors are the most common entry points. Use solid deadbolts, double locks, and lockable screen doors. Sliding doors benefit from security bars or wooden dowels in the tracks.<\/p>\n<p>Lock every window, including upper floors. Install security screens or window blockers where possible.<\/p>\n<p>Garages are often overlooked. Unplug automatic openers if you\u2019ll be away for long periods and lock the internal door to the house. Secure sheds as well \u2014 tools stored there can be used to break in.<\/p>\n<h2>Never hide spare keys outside<\/h2>\n<p>Burglars know every hiding spot: under mats, inside pot plants, behind hoses. Give your spare key to a trusted neighbour instead.<\/p>\n<table data-path-to-node=\"16\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Feature<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>The &#8220;Vacant&#8221; Look (Risk)<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>The &#8220;Occupied&#8221; Look (Safe)<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><span data-path-to-node=\"16,1,0,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"16,1,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Bins<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<td><span data-path-to-node=\"16,1,1,0\">Left on the curb for 3+ days.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span data-path-to-node=\"16,1,2,0\">Brought in within 12 hours of collection.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span data-path-to-node=\"16,2,0,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"16,2,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Driveway<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<td><span data-path-to-node=\"16,2,1,0\">Completely empty and swept clean.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span data-path-to-node=\"16,2,2,0\">A car (yours or a neighbour&#8217;s) parked.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span data-path-to-node=\"16,3,0,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"16,3,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Mailbox<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<td><span data-path-to-node=\"16,3,1,0\">Stuffed with local flyers and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/1111-council-notice-letters.html\">letters<\/a>.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span data-path-to-node=\"16,3,2,0\">Empty; junk mail removed by a friend.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span data-path-to-node=\"16,4,0,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"16,4,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Curtains<\/b><\/span><\/td>\n<td><span data-path-to-node=\"16,4,1,0\">Fully drawn for 2 weeks straight.<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span data-path-to-node=\"16,4,2,0\">Varied positions or smart-motorized movement.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2>Use smart home technology wisely<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/au.pcmag.com\/home-security-cameras\/62257\/the-best-outdoor-home-security-cameras\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Modern security tech<\/a> is affordable and effective.<\/p>\n<h3>Install doorbell or motion cameras<\/h3>\n<p>Brands like Ring and Google Nest let you see and speak to visitors from anywhere. Visible cameras alone can cut burglary risk significantly.<\/p>\n<h3>Use smart plugs and remote\u2011controlled lights<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/au.pcmag.com\/smart-plugs\/53470\/the-best-smart-plugs-and-power-strips\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Switch lights or radios<\/a> on remotely to mimic normal activity.<\/p>\n<h3>Set up DIY alarms<\/h3>\n<p>Many systems now offer <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tp-link.com\/au\/smart-home\/smart-sensor\/tapo-t30-kit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">mobile alerts without professional installation<\/a>. Even alarm stickers or dummy sirens deter intruders.<\/p>\n<h3>Use door and window sensors<\/h3>\n<p>These send instant <a href=\"https:\/\/www.police.vic.gov.au\/preventing-home-burglaries\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">notifications if triggered<\/a>, especially useful for sliding doors or ground\u2011level windows.<\/p>\n<h3>Secure your Wi\u2011Fi<\/h3>\n<p>Smart devices rely on your modem. Use a strong password (at least 12 characters) and ensure your network stays powered while you\u2019re away.<\/p>\n<h2>Protect your valuables and insurance coverage<\/h2>\n<p>Insurance won\u2019t prevent a burglary, but it can soften the impact.<\/p>\n<h3>Check your policy<\/h3>\n<p>Ensure your coverage includes theft, forced entry, and accidental damage. Many insurers have vacancy limits (often around 60 days).<\/p>\n<h3>Document your belongings<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Photograph jewellery, electronics, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhwnt.org.au\/holiday-safety-advice\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">and rare items<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Record serial numbers<\/li>\n<li>Store receipts or appraisals digitally<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Use interior locks and safes<\/h3>\n<p>Lock rooms containing valuables. Place small safes in less obvious locations and bolt them down if possible.<\/p>\n<h2>Be smart about social media<\/h2>\n<p>More than one in ten burglars reportedly check public social media to confirm a home is empty.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Avoid posting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smartraveller.gov.au\/before-you-go\/staying-safe\/cyber-security\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">travel dates or airport photos<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Upload holiday photos after you return<\/li>\n<li>Disable location tagging<\/li>\n<li>Review your follower list and privacy settings<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Leverage your community<\/h2>\n<p>Neighbourhood awareness is one of the strongest deterrents.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Tell a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.police.vic.gov.au\/absence-residence\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">trusted neighbour you\u2019ll be away<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Ask them to collect parcels and check your home<\/li>\n<li>Join local neighbourhood watch groups<\/li>\n<li>Check council safety programs or holiday checklists<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Consider house sitters<\/h2>\n<p>Having someone live in your home is one of the best protections. Reputable platforms match homeowners with verified sitters or pet carers who maintain routines and keep the home active.<\/p>\n<h2>Extra tips for apartment residents<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Never buzz in unknown visitors<\/li>\n<li>Report faulty access doors before leaving<\/li>\n<li>Secure balconies with locks or poles<\/li>\n<li>Notify building management so they can monitor parcels and access points<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Your final pre\u2011travel checklist<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Lock all doors and windows<\/li>\n<li>Set timers and motion lights<\/li>\n<li>Confirm insurance coverage<\/li>\n<li>Photograph key items<\/li>\n<li>Hide valuables out of sight<\/li>\n<li>Arrange bin and mail pickup<\/li>\n<li>Park a car in the driveway if possible<\/li>\n<li>Unplug nonessential appliances<\/li>\n<li>Consider turning off the main water valve<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Final thoughts<\/h2>\n<p>Home security during Christmas isn\u2019t about paranoia \u2014 it\u2019s about preparation. A few hours of planning can mean weeks of worry\u2011free travel. Thieves look for easy targets, not challenges. Every extra lock, every motion light, every alert neighbour reduces your risk dramatically.<\/p>\n<p>Before you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/1464-road-etiquette.html\">hit the road<\/a> or board that flight, make your home look lived\u2011in, communicate with your community, and double\u2011check your coverage. Consider this your annual checklist for safe and secure holiday travel.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>December in Australia means sunshine, road trips, and family holidays \u2014 but it\u2019s also peak season for home burglaries. Around one in twenty Australian homes experiences a break\u2011in or attempted break\u2011in each year, and reports can spike by up to 20% during the summer holidays when many homes sit empty. Whether you live in a [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1552,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-1443","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-australian-life"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1443","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1443"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1443\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1564,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1443\/revisions\/1564"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1552"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1443"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1443"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pinoy-ofw.com\/australia\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1443"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}