Like everyone else, I am looking forward to the end of the year and some wind down time with family and loved ones. Not that I ever completely switch off because news don’t stop making themselves. ‘Tis the season to be jolly but Aussies have heightened concerns about home security.

Speaking from personal experience, dealing with the aftermath of home burglary is a painful and tedious. Not to mention the sense of your private space being violated, the long process of identifying and cataloguing all the missing items, finding the proof of ownership etc.

Ring, the smart home security company who famously has the great Shaq as an early investor has commissioned a new research into ranking their concerns in order of priority when leaving their homes unoccupied.

The research was conducted by Pureprofile via an online survey of over 1,000 Australians aged 18-65+, nationally representative by age, gender, and location, in accordance with the latest ABS census data from December 4th to 7th, 2024.

The key findings of the research reveals that over 70% of Australians expressed concerns about leaving their home unoccupied. This is hardly surprising with over a quarter planning to travel (26%) and a quarter planning to get out and about at social gatherings (24%).

Concerns around parcel theft are particularly heightened at this time of year.

Additionally one in three (35%) paw-rents across Australia stated they feel anxious about leaving their furry friend at home alone for an extended periods of time.

Ring on Aussie home security

To ease these concerns and enjoy a stress-free summer, 85% of Australians shared that they are taking some form of precaution to protect their home and prized possessions during this peak summer season. This includes 33% stating they already have an existing home security device, 35% avoiding posting about travel plans on social media, and, proving that Aussie neighbourly spirit is still alive and well, 38% noting they will rely on neighbours to watch over their property.

From burglars to porch pirates: Australians biggest concerns when out of the house this holiday season are ranked as:

  • Burglary: Securing homes against intrusions is the top concern.
  • Damage (2nd – tied): Worries over fire, water leaks, and other unexpected incidents came in second alongside;
  • Parcel theft (2nd – tied): Ensuring deliveries remain safe.
  • Pets’ well-being (3rd – tied): Keeping furry friends secure and cared for came in third, alongside;
  • Checking in on family (3rd – tied): Staying connected with loved ones at home.

Ring on Aussie home security

Price of peace of mind

It is therefore not surprising that over half of Australians (59%) are willing to spend upwards of $100 to protect themselves from holiday heartache, with 16% in fact willing to invest “as much as it takes” to give them peace of mind while enjoying time away from home.

Unsurprisingly, with more unoccupied Australian homes than usual this summer, when looking at the most valuable features in a smart home security device, over 60% called out remote access and live view via a smartphone app, and over half of Australians (54%) highlighted the notifications that come through on their phone for events such as motion detection and doorbell rings.

Mark Fletcher, Ring Managing Director, APAC, says, “As Australians spend more time out of the house and travelling this summer, the ability to keep a vigilant and watchful eye on our prized possessions lessens. We know from the research that home security is top of mind over this busy period, and Ring is here to help. Our home security solutions keep people close to what’s important; protecting homes, belongings and even pets. We provide peace of mind so they can truly enjoy time with loved ones.

Ring’s top tips for peace of mind when you’re away from home:

  • Ensure Home Safety Before Your Departure: While it may appear straightforward, it’s essential to double-check all windows and doors are securely locked before heading on holiday.
  • Adjust Recurring Deliveries: To prevent your home from appearing vacant during extended absences, consider rescheduling regular subscription deliveries such as groceries or newspapers. If unexpected deliveries occur, having a Ring Video Doorbell is an easy way to instruct the delivery person to place the package in a secure location.
  • Remote Monitoring of Security Cameras: Consider installing a smart security system which enables you to access and review footage from your Ring devices directly on your smartphone, regardless of your location.
  • Create the Illusion of Occupancy: Consider implementing timer settings not only for your lights but also for sound. Having your radio turn on at various points throughout the day can give the impression that someone is at home.

Ring offers homeowners peace of mind, knowing their home, loved ones and parcels are fully protected.