Dorrigo crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
74 recorded in this period, compared with 61 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Dorrigo
Dorrigo is a plateau town located in the Northern Tablelands region of New South Wales, within the Bellingen Shire local government area (postcode 2453). Situated approximately 580 metres above sea level, the locality is defined by its rugged surrounding topography, including the Great Escarpment and the Dorrigo Plateau. It is widely recognized for its proximity to the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area, specifically the Dorrigo National Park, which features subtropical rainforests, waterfalls, and extensive walking tracks.
The local economy is historically rooted in the timber industry and agriculture, particularly beef cattle, dairying, and potato farming, though tourism has become a significant economic driver. The township serves as a commercial hub for the surrounding rural community, providing essential services such as primary and secondary schooling, health services, local retail, and community facilities. The climate is cooler and wetter than the nearby coastal areas, experiencing higher annual rainfall which supports the region's lush agricultural lands and native forests.
European settlement in the area began in the mid-19th century, driven initially by red cedar getters drawn to the dense lowland and plateau forests. The establishment of the township followed the clearing of the land for agricultural purposes, aided by the opening of the Dorrigo railway line in the early 20th century, which has since closed. Today, Dorrigo retains a distinct heritage character, reflected in its preserved historic buildings, local museums, and the recognition of its Indigenous Gumbaynggirr cultural heritage.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 9 | 12 |
| Malicious damage to property | 9 | 7 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 9 | 3 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 6 | 7 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 5 | 2 |
| Sexual assault | 5 | 1 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 4 | 6 |
| Fraud | 3 | 0 |
| Other theft | 3 | 2 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 3 | 6 |
| Steal from retail store | 3 | 0 |
| Trespass | 3 | 3 |
| Arson | 2 | 0 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 2 | 1 |
| Liquor offences | 2 | 1 |
| Stock theft | 2 | 0 |
| Breach bail conditions | 1 | 5 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 1 | 1 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 1,214 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.