Copper thefts in Australia have increased by 175% over the past year, according to police data, despite a government crackdown on the crime. The surge has led to significant disruptions, including school closures and rail line shutdowns, as thieves target wiring and infrastructure for scrap metal.
In New South Wales, several schools were forced to close after copper wiring was stolen from electrical systems, causing power outages and safety hazards. Transport for NSW reported delays on multiple train lines due to theft of signaling cables, with repair costs exceeding AUD 2 million in the last quarter alone.
The federal government introduced stricter regulations on scrap metal dealers in 2025, including mandatory ID checks and reporting requirements, but the theft rate continues to rise. Police attribute the increase to high copper prices, which have remained above USD 9,000 per tonne on global markets.
Victims include homeowners whose backyard air conditioning units have been stripped, and small businesses facing repeated thefts. The Australian Copper Alliance has called for harsher penalties and better surveillance at scrap yards.
