Victoria, Queensland and SA were largely responsible for a 9% national rise in car theft numbers last year, according to the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics figures.

There were 56,086 motor thefts – the highest level since 2012 and up from 51,525 in 2015.

Victoria was the worst-performing state, with a rise of 25%, while Queensland was up 19% and SA 10%. All other states and territories recorded decreases.

Three-quarters of stolen vehicles were taken from outbuildings, such as garages and carports, or residential land, including driveways and streets.