In Australia, theft offences are serious criminal acts punishable under the law. It encompasses various actions that involve dishonestly taking someone else’s property without their consent and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. The legal framework surrounding theft in Australia varies slightly across different states and territories but generally aligns with similar principles.
Theft offences can range from petty theft, such as shoplifting, to more serious crimes like burglary and robbery. Petty theft involves stealing low-value items, while burglary involves entering a property with the intent to commit theft or another offence. Whereas robbery involves theft accompanied by the use of force, threat, or intimidation against a person.
Penalties for theft offences in Australia depend on the severity of the crime, the value of the stolen property, and the circumstances surrounding the offences. Sentences may include fines, community service, probation, or imprisonment. The courts consider factors like the defendant’s criminal history, the impact on the victim, and any mitigating circumstances when determining the appropriate punishment.
Australia’s legal system prioritises rehabilitation, aiming to help offenders reintegrate into society and prevent reoffending. For minor thefts, authorities may impose diversion programs or community-based sentences to address the underlying causes of criminal behaviour.
Law enforcement agencies and courts use various tools and strategies to combat theft, including surveillance systems, security measures, and public awareness campaigns. Cooperation between the police, businesses, and communities is vital in preventing theft and apprehending offenders.
Efforts to address theft offences in Australia extend beyond punitive measures. Education, employment opportunities, and social support programs are essential components of a holistic approach to reducing theft and related crimes. Finally, fostering a sense of community responsibility and ethical conduct contributes to creating an environment where theft is less likely to occur.
The Crimes Act Victoria (1958) outlines sections in relation to theft offences. In this article, we will explore the relevant sections.

Section 71: Definitions Related to Theft Offences
Subsection (1) of Section 71 of Crimes Act Victoria (1958) states that in this Division—
- gain and loss are to be construed as extending only to gain or loss in money or other property. But as extending to any such gain or loss whether temporary or permanent.
Terms | Definitions |
Gain | Includes a gain by keeping what one has, as well as a gain by getting what one has not |
Loss | Includes a loss by not getting what one might get, as well as a loss by parting with what one has |
Goods | Includes money and every other description of property except land and includes things severed from land by stealing |
Property | Includes money and all other property real or personal including things in action and other intangible property |
Furthermore, subsection (2) states that in this Division, property shall be regarded as belonging to any person having possession or control of it, or having in it any proprietary right or interest (not being an equitable interest arising only from an agreement to transfer or grant an interest).
Section 72: Basic Definition of Theft
Subsection (1) states that a person steals if he dishonestly appropriates property belonging to another with the intention of permanently depriving the other of it.
Moreover, subsection (2) states that a person who stays is guilty of theft; and the “thief” shall be construed accordingly.

Section 73: Further Explanation of Theft
This section clarifies the interpretation and application of section 72 concerning theft. It outlines scenarios where appropriating someone else’s property may not be considered dishonest, such as when done:
- believing it’s legal,
- assuming consent, or
- being unable to identify the rightful owner despite reasonable efforts.
The Section covers various aspects, including assumptions of ownership rights, dealing with property transferred for value, exceptions related to stealing land, treating wild creatures as property, trust-related property, obligations upon receiving property, rectifying mistaken acquisitions, and intentions regarding permanent deprivation.
Furthermore, it also specifies conclusive evidence for stealing or attempting to steal motor vehicles or aircraft and provides definitions for terms like “motor vehicle” and “vessel.”
Section 74: Theft
Subsection (1) of Section 74 on theft states that a person guilty of theft is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to level 5 imprisonment (10 years maximum). Moreover, Section 80A applies as if the reference in that section to sections 81 – 87 (both inclusive) were a reference to this section.
Section 74AA: Theft of Firearm
Subsection (1) of S74AA on theft of firearm states that a person must not steal a firearm. The penalty for theft of firearm is 1800 penalty units or 15 years of imprisonment. Moreover, the term firearm has the same meaning as in Section 3(1) of the Firearms Act 1996.
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