Barkers Vale crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
5 recorded in this period, compared with 7 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Barkers Vale
Barkers Vale is a rural locality situated in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, within the Kyogle Council local government area (postcode 2474). Geographically, the area is characterised by undulating topography, lush subtropical vegetation, and proximity to the Richmond Range. Demographically, Barkers Vale has a small, dispersed population typical of rural NSW hinterlands, consisting largely of families, retirees, and individuals attracted to alternative lifestyles and small-scale agriculture.
Local life in Barkers Vale is centered around rural living, nature conservation, and primary production, including horticulture and cattle grazing. Due to its secluded and residential nature, the locality has minimal commercial infrastructure, relying instead on nearby townships such as Nimbin and Kyogle for retail, education, healthcare, and professional services. The area is accessed via local rural roads that connect to regional transport routes.
European settlement in the area dates back to the 19th century, driven initially by the timber industry and the clearing of native cedar and rainforest timbers. Following the decline of heavy forestry, the land use transitioned toward dairy farming and agriculture. In the latter half of the 20th century, Barkers Vale, like much of the wider Kyogle and Lismore hinterlands, saw an influx of settlers participating in the "alternative lifestyle" movement, which significantly shaped the community's cultural landscape and commitment to environmental preservation.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Breach bail conditions | 1 | 0 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 1 | 0 |
| Cultivating cannabis | 1 | 1 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 1 | 1 |
| Other theft | 1 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 196 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.