Coalcliff crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
37 recorded in this period, compared with 9 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Coalcliff
Coalcliff is a coastal residential suburb in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, located approximately 30 kilometres north of Wollongong and 75 kilometres south of Sydney. Situated within the City of Wollongong local government area and the 2508 postcode, the locality is geographically defined by its dramatic setting on a narrow coastal strip wedged between the rugged Illawarra escarpment and the Tasman Sea. The suburb is primarily residential, characterized by steep terrain, scenic ocean views, and a small, established population.
Local life and amenities in Coalcliff are shaped by its coastal geography and tight-knit community. The suburb is accessed via the historic Lawrence Hargrave Drive, which traverses the nearby Sea Cliff Bridge—an engineering landmark that connects Coalcliff to neighboring Clifton. Amenities within the immediate locality are limited due to its size, consisting primarily of local beaches, coastal walking tracks, and a surf lifesaving club, with residents relying on surrounding suburbs for comprehensive commercial and public services.
Historically, Coalcliff derives its name from the prominent seam of black coal discovered at the base of the local cliffs in the late 18th century. It holds significance as the site of one of the earliest coal mining operations in Australia, with extraction attempts beginning in the late 1700s and formal mining establishing the area as an important early industrial site in New South Wales. Over the 20th century, the local economy transitioned away from heavy industry as mining operations ceased, and the area evolved into a residential and recreational seaside community.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Other offences | 13 | 0 |
| Malicious damage to property | 6 | 1 |
| Transport regulatory offences | 4 | 3 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 2 | 0 |
| Steal from dwelling | 2 | 0 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 2 | 1 |
| Trespass | 2 | 0 |
| Breach bail conditions | 1 | 0 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 1 | 2 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 1 | 0 |
| Other offences against the person | 1 | 0 |
| Sexual assault | 1 | 0 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 1 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 212 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.