The numbers are staggering. Across Australia, copper theft is costing the nation more than $100 million annually, with criminals targeting everything from new home builds to railway lines, hospitals and even schools.
The crisis has become so severe that one state electricity provider is overhauling its entire network—all 52,000 kilometres of it.
Energex has announced it's systematically replacing copper cabling with aluminium across southeast Queensland, a move that will dramatically reduce the appeal to thieves while maintaining the same electrical performance.
The decision wasn't just about future planning—the relentless theft of copper has cost Energex $4.5 million every year, forcing the company to accelerate its infrastructure transformation.
'Queensland's electricity network can carry voltages of up to 132,000 volts, enough to kill instantly, and tragically lives have been lost in attempts to steal copper worth only a few dollars,' an Energex spokesperson explained. The stark reality is that thieves risk electrocution for materials that might fetch just dollars at scrap yards.
A national epidemic targeting critical infrastructure
'[Copper] can fetch anywhere between $10 to $15 a kilo'
Queensland isn't alone in this battle. Victoria and Western Australia are grappling with similar theft sprees that are costing taxpayers millions. In Perth alone, around 800,000 metres of cable has been stolen over the last five or six years, leaving streets in darkness and creating dangerous driving conditions.
Recent Queensland Police investigations have dealt with more than 18 complaints of copper wire thefts across southeast Queensland, with one case resulting in the seizure of 30 kilograms of stolen copper wiring. The scale suggests organised criminal activity rather than opportunistic theft.
Why copper has become 'red gold'
The surge in copper theft isn't coincidental. Copper prices have surged past US$10,000 a tonne for the first time in two years, driven by the global transition to green technology. Copper is essential for electric vehicle batteries and charging stations, creating unprecedented demand.
Current copper prices fluctuate between $11 and $14 per kilogram, meaning a 100-metre roll of cable valued at $220 wholesale can be sold as scrap for around $3.50 per kilogram. While this might seem modest, the volume of cable that can be quickly stolen makes it attractive to criminals—particularly when thousands of dollars worth of air-conditioning units may only yield around $25 worth of scrap copper.
From construction sites to railway lines
Victoria Police report copper being stolen from public lighting, pole earths connecting poles to houses and streets, and even ice detection systems on highways. The impact goes far beyond financial losses.
At Bacchus Marsh in outer Melbourne, thieves stole wiring from distribution boards, leaving five major sporting clubs without power. The crime appeared professional - 'someone that knows what they're doing' according to local officials, as high-voltage cabling requires expertise to handle safely.
Railway infrastructure has become a particular target. Unknown offenders have been cutting lengths of copper wire, up to kilometres at a time, with more than 30 reported incidents occurring between Buangor and Serviceton since February 2024, causing significant and costly disruption to rail freight services.
The human cost of copper crime
Beyond the financial impact lies a more sobering reality: the danger to both thieves and the community. Energex's warning about 132,000-volt cables isn't hyperbole. The company confirmed that 'tragically lives have been lost in attempts to steal copper worth only a few dollars.'
Police have found bundles of stolen copper cables at scrapyards and other locations, indicating well-organised criminal networks. In one major Sydney case, three building contractors were charged for allegedly stealing copper cables worth more than $2.5 million, selling the materials to unauthorised scrap metal merchants.
Protecting your property from copper thieves
Simple steps to deter copper theft
Paint all copper components black to give the appearance of worthless plastic conduit
Fence off areas containing copper items and install alarm systems with visible signage
Install CCTV for visible deterrent and offender identification
Keep trees trimmed for natural surveillance and store ladders inside
Remember that 90 per cent of copper theft occurs during nights or weekends
Local Melbourne electrician Dean Barton notes that residential sites, especially in regional and suburban areas, are more likely to be targeted than commercial properties due to less security. His advice for homeowners includes simple but effective measures.
The timing of theft attempts provides another layer of protection. Security experts estimate that approximately 90 per cent of all copper theft takes place during nights or weekends, making security patrols and lighting particularly effective.
The aluminium solution gaining momentum
Energex's decision to replace copper with aluminium represents a practical long-term solution. The company confirms the change will have no impact 'from an electrical distribution perspective' but will significantly reduce theft motivation, as aluminium commands far lower scrap prices than copper.
This strategy mirrors approaches used globally, as black market demand for copper creates similar crime waves worldwide—particularly severe in South Africa where copper theft costs the economy $3.8 billion annually.
Fighting back with technology and legislation
Australia's copper theft crisis by numbers
- Over $100 million annual cost nationally
- 800,000 metres of cable stolen in Perth over five years
- 18+ complaints investigated in one Queensland case
- $10-15 per kilogram scrap value driving theft
- 90 per cent of thefts occur during nights/weekends
Energex isn't stopping at material substitution. The company is also increasing the traceability of materials in its network, making it easier to track where stolen infrastructure ends up. This technological approach, combined with aluminium replacement, represents a comprehensive strategy.
Law enforcement is stepping up efforts too. Queensland Police recently executed search warrants resulting in the seizure of approximately 30kg of copper wiring and charges against offenders. However, the organised nature of many operations suggests this remains an ongoing challenge.
A problem requiring community vigilance
The copper crime wave represents more than just an infrastructure challenge—it's a community safety issue requiring collective awareness. Whether you're a homeowner with renovation plans, live near construction sites, or simply want to understand the dark side of Australia's green transition, staying informed about copper theft helps protect everyone.
The next time you see unusual activity around construction sites or electrical infrastructure, particularly during evenings or weekends, consider reporting it. With thieves causing millions in damage while risking lives for relatively small payouts, community vigilance becomes everyone's responsibility.
Have you noticed suspicious activity around construction sites or infrastructure in your area? What security measures have you seen that seem most effective? Share your observations and experiences in the comments below—your local knowledge could help others protect their communities from this costly and dangerous crime trend.
Original Article
https://au.news.yahoo.com/major-520...ssie-state-millions-every-year-025226474.html
Australia clamps down on copper thefts as dizzying rally powers metal to ‘new oil’ status | South China Morning Post
Cited text: Published: 6:08pm, 14 May 2024Updated: 9:54am, 15 May 2024 · Australian police charged three building contractors on Tuesday for allegedly stealing co...
Excerpt: Energex has announced it's systematically replacing copper cabling with aluminium across southeast Queensland
https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/econ...ts-dizzying-rally-powers-metal-new-oil-status
Australia hit by South Africa-style copper theft crime wave
Cited text: The annual cost of metal theft to the country has risen to over $100 million, according to the Australian Institute of Criminology, which said crimina...
Excerpt: the relentless theft of copper has cost Energex $4.5 million every year
https://www.noticer.news/copper-theft-crime-wave-australia/
Australia hit by South Africa-style copper theft crime wave
Cited text: December 20, 2024 · John Grant · Australia is in the midst of a wave of copper theft with thousands of kilograms stolen from sites across the country,...
Excerpt: Victoria and Western Australia are grappling with similar theft sprees that are costing taxpayers millions
https://www.noticer.news/copper-theft-crime-wave-australia/
Australia hit by South Africa-style copper theft crime wave
Cited text: Similar crimes are taking place in other states, and in Western Australia police are grappling with a spate of metal theft that is costing the taxpaye...
Excerpt: Victoria and Western Australia are grappling with similar theft sprees that are costing taxpayers millions
https://www.noticer.news/copper-theft-crime-wave-australia/
Australia hit by South Africa-style copper theft crime wave
Cited text: James Pinnington, acting director of metropolitan operations of Main Roads WA, told ABC Radio Perth: “We’re probably looking at around 800,000 metres ...
Excerpt: around 800,000 metres of cable has been stolen over the last five or six years
https://www.noticer.news/copper-theft-crime-wave-australia/
Copper wire thefts, Gympie and southeast Queensland—Queensland Police News
Cited text: “This was an extensive investigation that dealt with more than 18 complaints of copper wire thefts across southeast Queensland,” DI Geck said.
Excerpt: Recent Queensland Police investigations have dealt with more than 18 complaints of copper wire thefts across southeast Queensland
https://mypolice.qld.gov.au/news/2024/11/20/copper-wire-thefts-gympie-and-southeast-queensland/
Copper wire thefts, Gympie and southeast Queensland—Queensland Police News
Cited text: Detectives from Gympie Criminal Investigation Branch and Child Protection Investigation Unit investigated multiple reports of theft or damage to coppe...
Excerpt: Recent Queensland Police investigations have dealt with more than 18 complaints of copper wire thefts across southeast Queensland
https://mypolice.qld.gov.au/news/2024/11/20/copper-wire-thefts-gympie-and-southeast-queensland/
Australia clamps down on copper thefts as dizzying rally powers metal to ‘new oil’ status | South China Morning Post
Cited text: The theft case highlights the booming demand for copper after it surged past US$10,000 a tonne for the first time in two years, driven by tightening s...
Excerpt: Copper prices have surged past US$10,000 a tonne for the first time in two years
https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/econ...ts-dizzying-rally-powers-metal-new-oil-status
Australia clamps down on copper thefts as dizzying rally powers metal to ‘new oil’ status | South China Morning Post
Cited text: ... Alongside nickel and lithium, copper is used in EV batteries and charging stations.
Excerpt: Copper is essential for electric vehicle batteries and charging stations
https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/econ...ts-dizzying-rally-powers-metal-new-oil-status
Melbourne Electricians State These Simple Measures Can Prevent Copper Wire Theft—News Hub
Cited text: Key Facts: Copper prices have fluctuated between $11 and $14 AUD per kg since COVID. With prices varying, a 100-metre roll of 2.5 mm 2c + E TPS copper...
Excerpt: Current copper prices fluctuate between $11 and $14 per kilogram, meaning a 100-metre roll of cable valued at $220 wholesale can be sold as scrap for around $3.50 per kilogram
https://newshub.medianet.com.au/202...easures-can-prevent-copper-wire-theft/118073/
Copper Theft: How to turn $5,000 into $25
Cited text: It is little comfort that thousands of dollars’ worth of air-conditioners may only yield around $25 worth of scrap copper.
Excerpt: thousands of dollars worth of air-conditioning units may only yield around $25 worth of scrap copper
https://www.rms.org.au/news/copper-theft-how-to-turn-5000-into-25/
Australia hit by South Africa-style copper theft crime wave
Cited text: Copper theft has increased across Victoria, with the state’s public infrastructure a prime target. “[Victoria Police] are saying that copper’s being s...
Excerpt: Victoria Police report copper being stolen from public lighting, pole earths connecting poles to houses and streets, and even ice detection systems on highways
https://www.noticer.news/copper-theft-crime-wave-australia/
Australia hit by South Africa-style copper theft crime wave
Cited text: In Bacchus Marsh in outer Melbourne last last month wiring was stolen from switchboard in two separate incidents in the same week, leaving the Bacchus...
Excerpt: At Bacchus Marsh in outer Melbourne, thieves stole wiring from distribution boards, leaving five major sporting clubs without power
https://www.noticer.news/copper-theft-crime-wave-australia/
Australia hit by South Africa-style copper theft crime wave
Cited text: “Someone’s gone up to the Racecourse Reserve and broken into the distribution boards up there, and they have stolen all the high-voltage cable between...
Excerpt: At Bacchus Marsh in outer Melbourne, thieves stole wiring from distribution boards, leaving five major sporting clubs without power
https://www.noticer.news/copper-theft-crime-wave-australia/
Copper thefts I Australian Rural & Regional News
Cited text: Unknown offenders have been cutting lengths of copper wire, up to kilometres at a time, and stealing the product with more than 30 reported incidents ...
Excerpt: Unknown offenders have been cutting lengths of copper wire, up to kilometres at a time, with more than 30 reported incidents occurring between Buangor and Serviceton since February 2024, causing significant and costly disruption to rail…
https://arr.news/2025/03/19/copper-thefts/
Australia clamps down on copper thefts as dizzying rally powers metal to ‘new oil’ status | South China Morning Post
Cited text: Police also found bundles of stolen copper cables at scrapyards and other locations in the greater Sydney area.
Excerpt: Police have found bundles of stolen copper cables at scrapyards and other locations
https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/econ...ts-dizzying-rally-powers-metal-new-oil-status
Copper Theft: How to turn $5,000 into $25
Cited text: One way to deter copper theft is to paint all copper components black, as this gives the appearance of worthless plastic conduit that is not worth ste...
Excerpt: Paint all copper components black to give the appearance of worthless plastic conduit
https://www.rms.org.au/news/copper-theft-how-to-turn-5000-into-25/
Copper Theft: How to turn $5,000 into $25
Cited text: An extra measure could be to fence off areas that contain copper items.
Excerpt: Fence off areas containing copper items and install alarm systems with visible signage
https://www.rms.org.au/news/copper-theft-how-to-turn-5000-into-25/
Copper Theft: How to turn $5,000 into $25
Cited text: Another method could be to install an alarm system with signage to deter potential theft of copper from a property, or to trigger an alarm response sh...
Excerpt: Fence off areas containing copper items and install alarm systems with visible signage
https://www.rms.org.au/news/copper-theft-how-to-turn-5000-into-25/
Copper Theft: How to turn $5,000 into $25
Cited text: CCTV is another visible deterrent and can be used for alarm verification, identifying the offenders, and assisting in the security response.
Excerpt: Install CCTV for visible deterrent and offender identification
https://www.rms.org.au/news/copper-theft-how-to-turn-5000-into-25/
Copper Theft: How to turn $5,000 into $25
Cited text: It is important to keep trees and shrubs around buildings trimmed to improve natural surveillance and where feasible, store ladders inside and secure ...
Excerpt: Keep trees trimmed for natural surveillance and store ladders inside
https://www.rms.org.au/news/copper-theft-how-to-turn-5000-into-25/
Copper Theft: How to turn $5,000 into $25
Cited text: It is estimated that approximately 90 per cent of all copper theft takes place during nights or week-ends, so security patrols can be effective.
Excerpt: Remember that 90 per cent of copper theft occurs during nights or weekends
https://www.rms.org.au/news/copper-theft-how-to-turn-5000-into-25/
Melbourne Electricians State These Simple Measures Can Prevent Copper Wire Theft—News Hub
Cited text: Dean Barton, founder and Managing Director of Approved Electrix in Melbourne, has introduced security measures for homeowners, citing the significant ...
Excerpt: Local Melbourne electrician Dean Barton notes that residential sites, especially in regional and suburban areas, are more likely to be targeted than commercial properties due to less security
https://newshub.medianet.com.au/202...easures-can-prevent-copper-wire-theft/118073/
Melbourne Electricians State These Simple Measures Can Prevent Copper Wire Theft—News Hub
Cited text: Residential sites, especially in regional and suburban areas, are more likely to be hit by copper wire theft than commercial properties, as they’re of...
Excerpt: Local Melbourne electrician Dean Barton notes that residential sites, especially in regional and suburban areas, are more likely to be targeted than commercial properties due to less security
https://newshub.medianet.com.au/202...easures-can-prevent-copper-wire-theft/118073/
Australia hit by South Africa-style copper theft crime wave
Cited text: Black market demand for copper is being driven by soaring metal prices and a looming supply shortage which has also caused a similar but more severe c...
Excerpt: This strategy mirrors approaches used globally, as black market demand for copper creates similar crime waves worldwide—particularly severe in South Africa where copper theft costs the economy $3.8 billion annually
https://www.noticer.news/copper-theft-crime-wave-australia/
Australia hit by South Africa-style copper theft crime wave
Cited text: Stella Smith, chief executive of Crime Stoppers Victoria, said the reason these crimes were occurring “is the price — [copper] can fetch anywhere betw...
Excerpt: $10-15 per kilogram scrap value driving theft
https://www.noticer.news/copper-theft-crime-wave-australia/
Copper wire thefts, Gympie and southeast Queensland—Queensland Police News
Cited text: Complex investigations led detectives to execute a search warrant at a property in Pie Creek (Gympie) on November 11 where police located and seized a...
Excerpt: Queensland Police recently executed search warrants resulting in the seizure of approximately 30kg of copper wiring and charges against offenders
https://mypolice.qld.gov.au/news/2024/11/20/copper-wire-thefts-gympie-and-southeast-queensland/
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