Canterbury crime statistics

Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06

401 recorded in this period, compared with 361 in the preceding period.

LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.

About Canterbury

Canterbury is a predominantly residential suburb located 10 kilometres south-west of the Sydney central business district in New South Wales, within the postcode 2193. It serves as a constituent locality of the Canterbury-Bankstown local government area. Geographically, the suburb is shaped by the Cooks River, which runs through the area, providing natural green spaces and pedestrian pathways. Demographically, Canterbury is characterised by a culturally diverse population living in a mix of historic single-dwelling homes and a growing number of medium-to-high-density apartment complexes, particularly around the commercial hub near the railway station.

Local life in Canterbury centres around its commercial strip along Canterbury Road and surrounding streets, which offers a variety of retail shops, eateries, and essential services. The suburb is well-connected by public transport, featuring the Canterbury railway station on the Bankstown Line, alongside multiple bus routes. Key recreational amenities include Canterbury Park Racecourse, Tasker Park—which features aquatic and fitness facilities—and the surrounding Cooks River cycleways, catering to both local residents and visitors.

The area possesses a rich history, originally inhabited by the Darug people prior to European settlement. European history dates back to the early 19th century when land grants were issued, most notably to Robert Campbell, who established a large estate and named it after his birthplace in England. A significant industrial heritage developed around the Cooks River during the 19th and early 20th centuries, including flour mills and sugar works. Today, this historical legacy is preserved through various heritage-listed buildings and sites scattered throughout the contemporary urban landscape.

Recorded offence categories

CategoryCurrent periodPrevious period
Steal from retail store395
Intimidation, stalking and harassment3743
Steal from motor vehicle3723
Malicious damage to property3421
Domestic violence related assault3321
Fraud3345
Steal from dwelling3131
Break and enter dwelling2119
Non-domestic violence related assault2031
Motor vehicle theft183
Breach Apprehended Violence Order1711
Other theft1012
Breach bail conditions89
Trespass78
Prohibited and regulated weapons offences66
Sexual assault68
Resist or hinder officer51
Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences56

Community context

The 2021 Census recorded 9,430 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.

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