Hay crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
222 recorded in this period, compared with 233 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Hay
Hay is a rural town and locality (postcode 2711) situated in the western Riverina region of New South Wales, serving as the administrative centre for the local government area of the Shire of Hay. Located approximately 450 kilometres west of Sydney, the area spans the intersection of the Sturt, Cobb, and Mid-Western highways and is positioned on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. The broader locality supports a stable population, with the local economy historically underpinned by extensive agriculture, particularly sheep and cattle grazing, wool production, and irrigated horticulture.
The town provides essential commercial, educational, and health services for the surrounding agricultural community. Local amenities include primary and secondary schooling, health services, and recreational facilities that support regional sports and community events. The geography of the surrounding district is characterised by flat, semi-arid plains, with the Murrumbidgee River supporting local flora, fauna, and recreational activities such as fishing and camping.
European settlement in the area dates back to the mid-19th century, with the town formally established in 1859 and named after Sir John Hay, a local parliamentarian. Historically, Hay functioned as a major inland port during the paddle-steamer era on the Murrumbidgee River, serving as a vital transport node for the pastoral industry. The locality also holds a unique place in Australian wartime history, having hosted several prisoner-of-war and interned civilian camps during World War II. Today, Hay preserves its historical architecture through various heritage-listed buildings, including the former Hay Gaol, the railway station, and homesteads that reflect its pastoral past.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 43 | 43 |
| Breach bail conditions | 29 | 22 |
| Malicious damage to property | 17 | 26 |
| Steal from dwelling | 14 | 9 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 13 | 13 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 11 | 14 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 10 | 2 |
| Trespass | 9 | 4 |
| Fraud | 8 | 5 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 8 | 15 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 6 | 5 |
| Other offences | 5 | 4 |
| Other theft | 5 | 7 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 4 | 1 |
| Possession and/or use of amphetamines | 4 | 2 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 4 | 5 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 4 | 7 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 4 | 5 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 2,300 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.