Efforts to disrupt scrap metal rackets and the parts black market are priorities for cutting car crime, according to the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council.

Targets include stopping criminals selling stolen parts to legitimate trades and more secure decommissioning of vehicles at the end of their lives, Executive Director Ray Carroll says in the annual report.

The council has called for consistent national regulations to combat vehicle crime.

“It is our view that although there have been many successes over recent years, there is still important work to be done,” Mr Carroll says.

Other council priorities include finding innovative ways to divert young people from vehicle crime.