Brunswick Heads crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
283 recorded in this period, compared with 321 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Brunswick Heads
Brunswick Heads is a coastal locality situated in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, within the Byron Shire local government area and bearing the postcode 2483. Geographically positioned at the mouth of the Brunswick River, the area is characterised by its coastal ecosystems, sandy beaches, and protected waterways. According to standard demographic profiles, the locality supports a permanent population of around two thousand residents, with community numbers regularly augmented by domestic and international visitors.
Local life in Brunswick Heads centres around its maritime environment, featuring a commercial hub along Mullumbimbi Street that offers a range of retail shops, cafes, and dining options. Recreational amenities are heavily oriented towards outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and surfing, supported by local parks and the Brunswick Heads boat harbour. The village atmosphere is notably distinct from the more commercially developed tourism centres nearby, maintaining a slower-paced community character.
Historically, the area was traditionally inhabited by the Arakwal people and other Bundjalung Nation groups, who utilised the rich coastal and riverine resources. European settlement began in the 19th century, driven by the timber industry, with the Brunswick River serving as a vital transport route for red cedar logging and shipping before the establishment of the coastal port. Over time, the economy transitioned from primary industries and maritime trade toward fishing, dairy farming, and eventually tourism, while retaining several historic buildings and structures from its maritime past.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Steal from motor vehicle | 26 | 12 |
| Fraud | 25 | 30 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 25 | 25 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 25 | 24 |
| Other theft | 23 | 14 |
| Malicious damage to property | 22 | 41 |
| Breach bail conditions | 17 | 15 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 13 | 22 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 11 | 11 |
| Trespass | 11 | 13 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 8 | 8 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 7 | 11 |
| Steal from dwelling | 7 | 4 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 6 | 3 |
| Arson | 5 | 4 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 5 | 8 |
| Liquor offences | 5 | 4 |
| Possession and/or use of amphetamines | 5 | 5 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 1,905 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.