State Government announces the end of the Immobiliser Subsidy Scheme

14/9/01
The State Government's Vehicle Engine Immobiliser Subsidy Scheme will be withdrawn next month.
The Minister assisting the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure, Michelle Roberts, said the scheme had achieved the objectives set when it was introduced in 1997.
"Over 375,000 vehicles now have immobilisers installed," Mrs Roberts said.
"The rebates provided by Government have cost more than $14 million.
"In the same period, Western Australia's vehicle theft rate has dropped 12 per cent, which was against the national trend.
"The scheme has had a significant impact on car theft, but was expensive, with subsidy payments for 2001-2002 estimated to be $4.5 million."
Mrs Roberts said people who had approved immobilisers fitted by authorised installers were originally entitled to a subsidy of $30 and this was increased to $40 in 1999. The subsidy was often paid to the installer, who passed it on to the customer as a discount.
The Minister said withdrawing the subsidy would not remove the requirement to fit an approved immobiliser before vehicle registration or licence transfer. Immobilisers are also compulsory on all new cars in WA.
Immobiliser installers, car dealers and the insurance industry will be formally advised of the closure of the scheme from October 1.
Immobiliser Subsidy Scheme payments will be available until the end of September, allowing people purchasing or registering a vehicle or considering installing an immobiliser to obtain the subsidy.
Media contact: Mark Thompson 9213 6600