Bangalow crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
113 recorded in this period, compared with 95 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Bangalow
Bangalow is a historic town situated in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, within the Byron Shire local government area (postcode 2479). Located approximately 15 kilometres southwest of Byron Bay, the locality is characterised by rolling green hills, rich volcanic soils, and a sub-tropical climate. According to the 2021 Australian census, Bangalow recorded a population of approximately 2,300 residents. The demographic profile reflects a blend of long-term rural residents, families, and professionals who have contributed to steady population growth in the broader hinterland region.
The town functions as a prominent commercial and social hub for the Byron Shire hinterland. Its main commercial strip, situated along Station Street and Byron Street, features heritage-revamped buildings housing boutique retail stores, cafes, and restaurants. Bangalow hosts several community facilities, including public schooling, sporting grounds, and the historic Bangalow A&I Hall, which serves as a venue for local markets, cultural events, and community gatherings.
Originally inhabited by the Arakwal people of the Bundjalung nation, European settlement in the area began in the 1840s, with intensive development following the timber-felling era of the late 19th century. The town was officially surveyed in 1882 and grew rapidly as a cedar-cutting and subsequently a dairy-farming centre, aided by the opening of the railway in 1894. Today, Bangalow is widely recognised for its well-preserved Victorian and Federation-era architecture, which has been largely protected through heritage conservation efforts.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Fraud | 15 | 11 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 11 | 6 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 10 | 10 |
| Malicious damage to property | 9 | 11 |
| Trespass | 9 | 2 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 7 | 4 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 5 | 0 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 5 | 6 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 5 | 5 |
| Sexual assault | 4 | 0 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 3 | 9 |
| Other theft | 3 | 2 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 3 | 4 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 3 | 1 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 3 | 3 |
| Arson | 2 | 5 |
| Other offences | 2 | 0 |
| Possession and/or use of cocaine | 2 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 2,752 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.