The ACT Policing online reporting form can be used for an expanded range of non-urgent crimes. Photo: ACT Policing.
Canberrans can report more crimes to the police through a newly expanded online platform.
Retail theft (such as clothes and alcohol) and stolen personal items can be reported through the ACT Policing online portal for non-urgent matters. Lost property (such as mobile phones or wallets) can also be reported.
However, burglaries must still be reported directly to police.
ACT Policing’s Chief Police Officer (CPO) Scott Lee said online reporting helped his officers allocate resources and respond to reports as they were made.
“[Online reporting] provides a much better decision-making process for police, where we can assess, triage and allocate those reports where we need to investigate,” he said.
The ACT Policing website allows users to submit information about an incident – such as if there were witnesses, insurance information and where it happened.
Once an incident is submitted, a response acknowledging its receipt will be sent, followed by an assessment outcome within 48 hours.
Police launched the system in 2023 so users could file an online report for crimes that didn’t require immediate police attendance.
From July 2023, the online portal offered options to report vandalism and property damage, with dangerous driving added to the list in May 2024.
Historic sexual assaults and petrol drive-offs were already reportable online.
About 3700 reports have been lodged since the ACT Policing online platform’s launch in 2023. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
CPO Scott said the portal meant police could focus on significant and time-critical matters.
“[The] actual policing response to those types of matters does not change. It’s the same response we provide, regardless of which way you report.
“If people are concerned that by reporting online they will get a different policing response, that’s obviously not the case.”
The new mechanism excludes the reporting of some items:
- Firearms, ammunition and firearm parts.
- Property stolen during a burglary.
- Theft of a motor vehicle or vehicle number plates.
To report these matters, call the police assistance line or go to a local police station.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services Marisa Paterson said the move made contacting police in the aftermath of the events more accessible.
“We take it very seriously and call on the public to report crime and to report these incidents as they happen,” she said.
“I’m really keen to support ACT Policing in their work to be as proactive as possible and to address these community concerns.”
Access the online reporting portal through ACT Policing’s website.
You can still report crimes at a police station, by calling the police assistance line on 131 444, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. In an emergency or life-threatening situation, call Triple Zero (000).
