Cleveland crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
8 recorded in this period, compared with 3 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Cleveland
Cleveland is a semi-rural locality situated in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, within the City of Wollongong local government area and the 2530 postcode. Geographically, it is positioned on the western fringes of the coastal plain, characterized by undulating terrain, pockets of native bushland, and cleared agricultural acreage. Due to its low population density and rural-residential zoning, demographic data for Cleveland is largely subsumed within the broader Illawarra statistical region, housing a quiet community focused on acreage living while remaining within commuting distance of major urban hubs.
Local life in Cleveland is defined by its peaceful, semi-rural character and natural surroundings. Amenities within the locality itself are minimal, consisting primarily of residential properties and small-scale agricultural holdings. For daily retail, commercial services, healthcare, and schooling, residents rely heavily on neighboring suburbs within the Wollongong local government area, such as Dapto. The area provides access to outdoor recreational pursuits, benefiting from its proximity to the Illawarra escarpment and regional transport corridors that connect the south coast to Sydney.
Historically, the lands surrounding Cleveland were originally inhabited by the Dharawal people, who maintained a deep connection to the coastal and escarpment environments. Following European settlement in the early 19th century, the region transitioned primarily into timber-getting, dairy farming, and agricultural production. Over the latter half of the 20th century, parts of the locality underwent a gradual transition from traditional farming estates to rural-residential acreages, preserving much of its historical open landscape while integrating into the modern administrative framework of Wollongong.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Other theft | 3 | 0 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 2 | 0 |
| Malicious damage to property | 1 | 0 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 1 | 1 |
| Trespass | 1 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 22 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.