Balgowlah crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
272 recorded in this period, compared with 299 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Balgowlah
Balgowlah is a harbourside suburb located 11 kilometres north-east of the Sydney central business district, within the Northern Beaches local government area, holding the postcode 2093. Geographically, the suburb sits on the northern slopes sloping down toward Middle Harbour, bordered by neighbouring suburbs such as Balgowlah Heights, Manly Vale, and Seaforth. The area is primarily residential, characterized by a mix of historic detached houses, modern medium-density apartments, and townhouses, supporting a diverse demographic of families and professionals.
Local commercial activity is concentrated along Condor Street and the Spit Road corridor, featuring retail strips, supermarkets, professional services, and a variety of dining options. The suburb is well-served by public transport, offering frequent bus services connecting residents to the Sydney CBD, North Sydney, and Manly. Open spaces and recreational needs are met by local parks, sports ovals, and proximity to the tranquil waterways of Middle Harbour, which facilitate activities such as bushwalking, boating, and swimming.
Historically, the area was originally inhabited by the Guringai people, with the name "Balgowlah" derived from an Aboriginal word believed to mean "a place of the sea" or "turning point." European settlement began in the early 19th century, with land initially used for farming and timber-getting before transitioning into a residential area as transport links, including tramways and roads, improved access to Sydney. The suburb contains a number of preserved Federation-style homes and early commercial buildings that reflect its historical development from a rural outpost into an established urban locality.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Steal from retail store | 26 | 33 |
| Malicious damage to property | 24 | 29 |
| Other theft | 21 | 20 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 20 | 25 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 19 | 18 |
| Fraud | 17 | 33 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 17 | 21 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 16 | 9 |
| Steal from dwelling | 15 | 18 |
| Breach bail conditions | 11 | 8 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 11 | 7 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 11 | 19 |
| Trespass | 11 | 10 |
| Sexual assault | 10 | 4 |
| Other offences | 5 | 1 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 5 | 2 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 4 | 5 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 4 | 6 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 8,068 residents. This is not a current population estimate.
Sources and interpretation
These are police-recorded incident or victim counts, not every unreported incident or a prediction of personal safety. Percentage changes are not tests of statistical significance; small counts need particular care.