Broadwater (Richmond Valley) crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
41 recorded in this period, compared with 59 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Broadwater (Richmond Valley)
Broadwater is a rural village located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, within the Richmond Valley Council local government area (postcode 2472). Situated on the banks of the Richmond River, the locality lies approximately 30 kilometres north-east of Casino and a similar distance south of Lismore, positioning it centrally within the floodplain agricultural landscape characteristic of the region. At the 2021 census, Broadwater and its surrounding district recorded a small population primarily engaged in agriculture, local services, and regional commuting.
The local economy and community life are traditionally anchored by surrounding agricultural pursuits, notably sugarcane cultivation and beef cattle farming. The village itself features basic local amenities, including a community hall, recreational spaces, and the historic Broadwater public school, while relying on nearby regional centres like Evans Head and Casino for broader commercial, health, and educational services. The Richmond River and surrounding waterways also support recreational fishing and boating for residents and visitors.
Historically, Broadwater developed in the late 19th century as a significant hub for the regional sugar industry. The establishment of the Broadwater Sugar Mill in the 1880s spurred local settlement, economic growth, and the development of river transport infrastructure to move produce to markets. Today, the locality retains a distinct heritage character, underscored by its enduring connection to the sugar-milling industry and historic agricultural infrastructure dotted throughout the Richmond Valley.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Steal from motor vehicle | 6 | 3 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 4 | 8 |
| Fraud | 4 | 4 |
| Malicious damage to property | 4 | 7 |
| Sexual assault | 4 | 2 |
| Other theft | 3 | 0 |
| Steal from dwelling | 3 | 2 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 2 | 1 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 2 | 0 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 2 | 3 |
| Trespass | 2 | 0 |
| Arson | 1 | 1 |
| Breach bail conditions | 1 | 5 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 1 | 2 |
| Possession and/or use of amphetamines | 1 | 1 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 1 | 2 |
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.