Arabic version: الشرطة تحذّر مرتادي صالات الرياضة في ملبورن من سرقة السيارات

According to ABC News, Victoria Police says 250 vehicles were stolen from gyms in Melbourne’s south-east between November 2025 and April, prompting a warning for patrons to secure their belongings while working out. More than half of the reported thefts occurred in Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia.

Police said young offenders were entering fitness facilities by tailgating members at entrances, then taking car keys from unattended lockers or open storage cubes. Children as young as 13 have been arrested after allegedly stealing vehicles from gym car parks, police said.

Among incidents highlighted by authorities was a boy who allegedly stole a car from a Glen Iris gym and returned two days later to take another vehicle. He and three other teenagers were arrested after a high-speed chase. Police also reported that four teenage girls, including a 13-year-old, stole two sets of keys from lockers at a Clyde North gym; three of the girls had not been found.

Victoria Police said keys were stolen from a Burwood gym before a ute was taken and used as a getaway vehicle following a suspicious factory fire. A 15-year-old was arrested and charged. Late last month, two 14-year-old girls were injured, one critically, after a crash involving a car allegedly stolen from a Chadstone gym.

Acting Senior Sergeant Benita Pringle said stolen vehicles were often used in further offending. Police urged gym users to place valuables in lockers, avoid open storage cubes, stop tailgating at entrances and park in well-lit areas with CCTV coverage. Anyone with information about gym thefts has been asked to contact CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.