Federal crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
10 recorded in this period, compared with 20 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Federal
Federal is a rural locality situated in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, within the Byron Shire local government area (Postcode 2480). Positioned in the hinterland west of Byron Bay, the area is characterized by undulating topography, high annual rainfall, and fertile volcanic soils derived from the ancient Tweed Volcano. Demographically, Federal is a small, tight-knit community that has transitioned from a traditional agricultural base to a diverse rural-residential population, attracting individuals seeking an alternative lifestyle alongside traditional landholders.
The locality functions primarily as a quiet residential and agricultural hub, known for its production of macadamia nuts, beef cattle, and subtropical fruits. The small commercial centre of Federal features essential community amenities, including a general store, a local hall, and community sporting facilities that serve as focal points for social gatherings. Surrounding education and broader commercial services are accessed in nearby settlements such as Bangalow and Lismore.
European settlement in the area dates back to the 19th century, driven by the timber industry and subsequent land clearing for dairy farming and agriculture. The locality was historically known by various names before being gazetted as Federal, a moniker reflecting the federation of Australia. Over the decades, the landscape shifted significantly, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s when the region experienced an influx of "hippies" and alternative settlers who established communes and sustainable farming initiatives, permanently altering the cultural fabric and land-use patterns of the community.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Arson | 3 | 0 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 1 | 1 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 1 | 3 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 1 | 4 |
| Other drug offences | 1 | 0 |
| Sexual assault | 1 | 1 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 1 | 0 |
| Steal from dwelling | 1 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 784 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.