The number of motor vehicle thefts in Australia increased in the last financial year.

A total of 17,578 vehicles were stolen for profit in 2011/12, up 1127 or 7% on the previous year, according to the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council (NMVTRC).

Some 42,296 vehicles were stolen for short-term use, an increase of 1965 or 5%.

“Crime is on the increase and cars are involved in most other forms of crime,” NMVTRC Executive Director Ray Carroll told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

“Another major concern is the growing demand for used parts throughout Asia, the Middle East and North Africa.”

Mr Carroll says rising unemployment may also be a factor.

Nearly half of all passenger and light commercial vehicles stolen did not have an immobiliser, or contained one that did not meet NMVTRC standards.