Bowraville crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
171 recorded in this period, compared with 108 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Bowraville
Bowraville is a historic hinterland town located in the Nambucca Valley region of New South Wales, within the 2449 postcode area. Situated along the banks of the Nambucca River’s North Arm, the locality is characterized by a mix of undulating agricultural land, remnant subtropical vegetation, and proximity to coastal environments. According to the 2021 Australian census, Bowraville and its surrounding district recorded a population of approximately 1,400 residents, maintaining a tight-knit and predominantly regional demographic profile.
The town features a compact commercial centre that serves the local rural community, offering essential retail services, primary and secondary schooling, and community health facilities. Local life is heavily influenced by outdoor recreation, agriculture, and regional arts, with community spaces supporting various sporting and cultural groups. Bowraville acts as a quieter inland alternative to the coastal hubs of the Nambucca Valley, while remaining connected via regional road networks to larger centres such as Macksville and Coffs Harbour.
Historically, Bowraville sits on the traditional lands of the Gumbaynggirr people. European settlement began in the mid-19th century, driven by the timber industry, cedar-getting, and subsequent dairy farming and agriculture. The town is well-preserved, featuring a heritage-listed main street with numerous 19th-century buildings that reflect its boom-era architecture. Today, Bowraville's history is also marked by solemn remembrance and civil rights milestones, most notably being the site of the tragic 1990–1991 Bowraville murders, which catalyzed significant national advocacy regarding Indigenous justice and policing.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Malicious damage to property | 23 | 14 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 16 | 7 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 15 | 14 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 12 | 3 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 12 | 11 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 10 | 7 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 10 | 1 |
| Breach bail conditions | 9 | 7 |
| Steal from retail store | 9 | 6 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 7 | 2 |
| Other theft | 6 | 3 |
| Liquor offences | 5 | 6 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 4 | 1 |
| Sexual assault | 4 | 2 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 4 | 2 |
| Trespass | 4 | 5 |
| Fraud | 3 | 3 |
| Resist or hinder officer | 3 | 1 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 1,157 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.