Summer Savvy: 1 in 3 Aussies are stepping up home security ahead of holiday season
SYDNEY, Australia, 17 December 2024: New research commissioned by Ring, a smart home security company, reveals that over a third of Australians (35%) are considering upgrading or installing new home security to give them peace of mind this summer, in light of plans to spend more time away from home over the holiday season.
Over 70% of Australians expressed concerns about leaving their home unoccupied during this peak summer season, which is unsurprising with over a quarter planning to travel (26%) and a quarter planning to get out and about at social gatherings (24%).
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. 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 their neighbours to watch over their property.
From burglars to porch pirates: Australians biggest concerns when out of the house
The biggest concerns Australians have when planning to be out of the house this holiday season are ranked as:
- Burglary: Securing homes against intrusions is the top concern.
- Damage: Worries over fire, water leaks, and other unexpected incidents.
- Parcel theft: Ensuring deliveries remain safe.
- Pets’ well-being: Keeping furry friends secure and cared for.
- Checking in on family: Staying connected with loved ones at home.
‘Tis the season to be jolly, but also to shop! Concerns around parcel theft are particularly heightened at this time of year, with more than a third (35%) of Aussies expecting more deliveries than usual, and 34% sharing growing concerns that unattended packages may be stolen.
As well as pets being the fourth biggest concern, 25% of paw-rents across Australia stated they feel anxious about leaving their furry friend at home alone for an extended period of time.
Price of peace of mind
It is therefore not surprising that one in two (56%) Australians are willing to spend over $100 to protect themselves from holiday heartache, while 15% are 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. As the holiday season brings increased travel and deliveries, now is the perfect time to invest in peace of mind with Ring’s versatile range of solutions. For a full list of products available in Australia, visit Ring.com.
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About the research
The research was commissioned by Ring and 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.
About Ring
Since its founding in 2013, Ring creates new ways to connect to the places, people and things important to its customers. First known for its iconic Video Doorbell, Ring now offers customisable solutions compatible with just about any home, from indoor and outdoor cameras to a wide range of accessories. Core to the experience is the Ring app, empowering customers to stay connected no matter where they are, because distance shouldn’t separate people from what they care about. Ring is an Amazon company. For more information, visit www.ring.com