The latest NRMA vehicle security ratings have found Australian-made cars are lagging behind Europe and Japan when it comes to adopting new car security technology.

European manufacturer Audi topped the list in vehicle security, while locally produced cars including Holden, Ford, Toyota and Mitsubishi rated poorly.

NRMA Insurance head of research Robert McDonald says local manufacturers appear resistant to change.

"Such as replacing their aluminium compliance plate with a simple self-voiding high security label for less than $2 a car," he said.

National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council spokesman Jeff Hughes says despite car theft being at its lowest level in 30 years, professional theft is still a major problem.

"The generally poor standard to which Australian-produced vehicles in particular are identified has played directly into the hands of criminals," he said.