Lives at risk as copper theft crimes increase

25 May 2023

Lives at risk as copper theft crimes increase

Ausgrid is warning that people are putting their lives at risk by interfering with live electrical assets in an attempt to steal copper cables, as would be thieves continue to get caught across the network.

Forty-five incidents of copper theft were recorded across the Ausgrid network over the last 18 months, disrupting thousands of customers electricity supply, and significantly increasing safety risks to our communities. Thirty-five of these incidents occurred across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Central Coast.  

Ausgrid’s EGM of Field Operations, Sam Sofi, said this increase is extremely concerning, as people are putting their lives at risk by interfering with live electrical assets. 

“Copper theft is a serious public safety issue. Not only do the perpetrators put their own lives at risk, they also endanger the community by leaving powerlines exposed.” 

“These malicious incidents have a huge impact on our customers. Each time thieves try to steal copper, our customers experience power supply issues and the public safety risk of encountering exposed wires increases. For each incident across our network, we work with local police and have successfully identified several offenders,” Mr Sofi said. 
 

If you see fallen powerlines always assume they are live, stay at least eight metres back and call Ausgrid on 13 13 88.  

All incidents have been reported to the police. Anyone who may have any information is urged to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.