If you’ve ever raced home after getting a “Your parcel has been delivered” notification, you’re not alone. New research suggests around 1.4 million parcels are stolen from Australian doorsteps each year, with millions more going missing or being misdelivered. As online shopping becomes a daily habit, so-called porch pirates are becoming an expensive and frustrating problem for households across the country.
The good news? There are practical ways to protect your deliveries – and some homeowners are even turning the tables on thieves with clever (and colourful) tricks.
Porch pirates are on the rise in Australia
Surveys show about one in five Australians has experienced a parcel that never arrived, while around seven per cent say a delivery was stolen straight from their doorstep in the past year. The estimated cost runs into the hundreds of millions of dollars annually, making parcel theft one of the fastest-growing household nuisances.
How to protect your parcels from doorstep theft
Request a signature on delivery: It may take a little more planning, but a signature ensures your parcel isn’t left unattended.
Use parcel lockers or collection points: Australia Post parcel lockers, PO boxes and local collection hubs are secure and free, making them ideal if you’re not home during the day.
Redirect deliveries: Many couriers allow parcels to be redirected to work, a neighbour or another trusted address.
Install a doorbell camera: Visible cameras and smart doorbells are proven deterrents and can provide evidence if a theft occurs.
Leave delivery instructions: Asking drivers to place parcels behind a gate, side door or pot plant can keep them out of sight.
Time your deliveries: Choosing weekend or nominated-day delivery reduces the chance your parcel sits unattended.
The sneaky new trick catching thieves red-handed
Some frustrated homeowners are now baiting thieves with decoy parcels designed to explode when opened – not with anything dangerous, but with bright paint, glitter or dye that sprays everywhere.
The harmless paint makes thieves instantly recognisable, and viral videos of the tactic have gained millions of views online. While experts warn against anything that could be considered a booby trap, the trend shows just how fed up Australians are becoming with parcel theft.
What to do if your parcel is stolen
If your delivery disappears:
Contact the retailer or courier immediately
Check with neighbours
Report the theft to police, especially if it’s recurring
Notify your insurer if the item is valuable
The bottom line
Parcel theft may be on the rise, but a few smart steps can greatly reduce the risk. From secure lockers to clever delivery timing – and even paint-spraying decoys – Australians are finding new ways to protect what’s theirs.
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