Callala Beach crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
37 recorded in this period, compared with 36 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Callala Beach
Callala Beach is a coastal locality situated in the City of Shoalhaven local government area of New South Wales, carrying the postcode 2540. Located on the northern shores of Jervis Bay, approximately 25 kilometres east of Nowra, the area is characterised by its sandy shoreline, predominantly flat terrain, and proximity to Jervis Bay National Park. According to the 2021 census, the locality supports a permanent population of around 2,000 residents, a figure that experiences seasonal increases due to its popularity as a holiday and tourism destination.
The local economy and lifestyle are heavily oriented towards coastal recreation, tourism, and retirement living. Amenities within Callala Beach include a local shopping strip featuring essential retail and dining services, a bowling club, and caravan parks. The beach is a popular site for swimming, fishing, and boating, while nearby Callala Bay provides additional commercial facilities and a boat ramp. Education and wider civic services are accessed in the broader Shoalhaven region, primarily via Nowra.
Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by the Indigenous Wandi Wandee people, who utilized the rich marine and forest resources of Jervis Bay. European presence in the wider region began in the early 19th century, initially focused on timber-getting, agriculture, and fishing. The name "Callala" is believed to be derived from an Aboriginal word meaning "place of meeting" or similar traditional terminology. Over the latter half of the 20th century, Callala Beach evolved from a quiet fishing and camping settlement into a permanent residential and holiday village.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 5 | 7 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 4 | 6 |
| Fraud | 3 | 2 |
| Sexual assault | 3 | 1 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 3 | 1 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 2 | 2 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 2 | 0 |
| Malicious damage to property | 2 | 6 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 2 | 1 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 2 | 2 |
| Assault Police | 1 | 0 |
| Breach bail conditions | 1 | 0 |
| Criminal intent | 1 | 0 |
| Other offences | 1 | 1 |
| Other theft | 1 | 1 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 1 | 1 |
| Resist or hinder officer | 1 | 0 |
| Steal from dwelling | 1 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 777 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.