Darkwood crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
18 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 Darkwood
Darkwood is a rural locality situated in the Bellingen Shire of New South Wales, within the 2454 postcode area. Geographically defined by its setting along the upper reaches of the Bellinger River valley, the area is characterised by rugged terrain, steep forested ridges, and fertile river flats. Demographically, Darkwood is sparsely populated, reflecting a community dominated by rural-residential living, small-scale agriculture, and environmental conservation.
Local life in Darkwood is centered around natural surroundings and rural pursuits, with residents largely reliant on nearby Bellingen for major commercial, educational, and administrative services. Infrastructure within the locality is minimal, consisting primarily of rural residential properties, local access roads, and natural reserves. The economy and lifestyle of the area are closely tied to the natural environment, encompassing activities such as horticulture, livestock grazing, and eco-tourism.
Historically, the area's development was shaped by the timber-getting industry of the 19th and early 20th centuries, when cedar and other hardwoods were harvested from the surrounding rainforests and transported down the Bellinger River. Following the decline of intensive logging, the land transitioned toward farming and later attracted a wave of alternative lifestyle settlers from the late 20th century onward. The heritage of Darkwood is preserved through its historical association with early European settlement, agricultural traditions, and the enduring cultural landscape of the Gumbaynggirr people, the traditional custodians of the region.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Malicious damage to property | 4 | 2 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 3 | 1 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 3 | 0 |
| Steal from dwelling | 2 | 0 |
| Arson | 1 | 0 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 1 | 2 |
| Fraud | 1 | 1 |
| Other theft | 1 | 0 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 1 | 0 |
| Trespass | 1 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 237 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.