Queensland government fitting 'game-changing' device to stop car thefts

The Queensland government is paying for engine immobilisers to be fitted to cars in a bid to reduce thefts.

Police said a new trial of devices is underway in the state's north could contribute to a significant reduction in youth crime.

Most new vehicles are fitted with stock standard immobilisers but thieves can bypass them.

READ MORE: More charges for Hunter Valley wedding bus driver

The immobiliser device is a secondary measure which some believe makes it more effective.

The device is fitted to a car's radio or steering panel and it's controlled by a keypad or on a mobile phone.

Car owners can type in a safety combination like a pin number on a bank card to unlock the engine.

READ MORE: Human remains found in hunt for missing aviators

Starting in Townsville, Mt Isa and Cairns, the state government is handing out 20,000 subsidy vouchers to the value of $500 each.

The money allows residents to have an immobiliser fitted to their vehicle.

The average fitting cost is $650 dollars with residents to pay the difference.

Senior police said they hope one day car manufacturers will fit all new vehicles with the device.

"This is a game changer when it comes to vehicle security," police minister Mark Ryan said.

Sign up here to receive our daily newsletters and breaking news alerts, sent straight to your inbox.