Helensburgh crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
240 recorded in this period, compared with 210 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Helensburgh
Helensburgh is a historic town located in the northernmost part of the Illawarra region in New South Wales, within the City of Wollongong local government area and bearing the postcode 2508. Situated on a plateau within the Royal National Park and Garawarra State Conservation Area, the locality is characterized by its heavily forested surroundings and proximity to the Illawarra escarpment. At the 2021 census, Helensburgh recorded a population of approximately 6,300 residents, maintaining a distinct suburban character while being bounded largely by protected bushland.
The town functions primarily as a residential community with a strong village atmosphere, supporting commuters who travel toward Sydney, Wollongong, and the Sutherland Shire. Local amenities include a traditional commercial strip along Parkes Street featuring supermarkets, cafes, and essential services, alongside community infrastructure such as local sporting fields, parks, and schools. The surrounding natural environment heavily influences local life, offering residents access to bushwalking tracks, coastal lookouts, and nearby beaches.
Established in the late 19th century, Helensburgh owes its origins primarily to the coal mining industry, specifically the opening of the Metropolitan Colliery in 1888, which remains a notable feature of the area. The town’s rich industrial heritage is preserved through various historical sites, most famously the disused Helensburgh Tunnel (historically known as the Metropolitan Tunnel), which has gained attention as a heritage tourism attraction and glow-worm habitat.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 34 | 13 |
| Malicious damage to property | 32 | 17 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 22 | 16 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 18 | 12 |
| Fraud | 17 | 21 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 16 | 10 |
| Breach bail conditions | 13 | 9 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 8 | 4 |
| Other offences | 7 | 1 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 7 | 1 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 7 | 18 |
| Steal from retail store | 7 | 9 |
| Transport regulatory offences | 5 | 6 |
| Arson | 4 | 0 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 4 | 0 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 4 | 9 |
| Other theft | 4 | 2 |
| Resist or hinder officer | 4 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 6,576 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.