It aims to increase farm crime reporting in Victoria, whether it is stolen livestock, harvested animals, firearms, equipment, tools or chemicals.
New data released by the Crime Statistics Agency has revealed livestock theft across the state has risen by two per cent in the past 12 months, costing rural communities close to $2 million.
Despite this, farm crime is generally under reported.
Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Stella Smith said farm thieves were becoming increasingly sophisticated in how they targeted victims.
“We're seeing offenders use drones and satellite imagery to spy on rural properties,” she said.
Ms Smith said it was vital farmers and property owners made a report to Crime Stoppers if they had been targeted by criminals or suspected a farm crime had occurred.
Information can be provided anonymously.
Victoria Police farm crime co-ordination unit Acting Inspector Emma Bartel said farm crime was taken seriously.
“It’s vital farmers come forward to report any crime and they should know we will investigate it fully,” she said.
“We understand the impact theft of livestock and equipment can have on farmers and their livelihoods.
“We encourage people in rural areas to report any suspicious activity.
“We also urge farmers to take precautions — a simple measure like a sign on the fence warning would-be trespassers to stay off private property can go a long way to discouraging crime.”
The public is also encouraged to check the authenticity of livestock and second-hand farming equipment they buy.
To help boost security on rural properties, Crime Stoppers Victoria and Victoria Police have produced new farm gate signs, available to order for free at: crimestoppersvic.com.au/farm-crime.
Once the request is submitted, the signs can be picked up from Benalla or Bendigo police stations.
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