Karuah crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
147 recorded in this period, compared with 101 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Karuah
Karuah is a town located in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, situated within the Port Stephens local government area with the postcode 2324. Positioned on the banks of the Karuah River near its discharge into Port Stephens, the locality is characterized by its coastal and estuarine geography. At the 2021 census, Karuah recorded a population of approximately 1,600 residents, reflecting a quiet, semi-rural demographic that includes a significant proportion of retirees.
Local life in Karuah centers around its waterfront setting, supporting industries such as commercial fishing, particularly renowned for local oyster farming, and tourism. The Pacific Highway previously bisected the town until the Karuah bypass opened in 2004, which reduced through-traffic and shifted the town's atmosphere toward a more relaxed residential and holiday destination. Essential amenities include local retail shops, a bowling club, a primary school, and boat ramps providing recreational access to the river and bay.
The area holds rich Indigenous heritage, historically inhabited by the Worimi people, for whom the Karuah River and surrounding bushland held significant spiritual and sustenance value. European settlement began in the 19th century, driven by the Australian Agricultural Company, which established operations in the region. Today, Karuah maintains strong cultural connections to its Indigenous roots, alongside historical sites that reflect its early maritime and timber-getting industries.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic violence related assault | 24 | 12 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 21 | 15 |
| Fraud | 10 | 7 |
| Malicious damage to property | 10 | 8 |
| Other offences | 9 | 14 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 8 | 3 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 6 | 2 |
| Breach bail conditions | 6 | 5 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 5 | 2 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 5 | 12 |
| Sexual assault | 5 | 1 |
| Steal from dwelling | 5 | 1 |
| Other theft | 4 | 4 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 4 | 0 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 4 | 2 |
| Trespass | 4 | 2 |
| Arson | 3 | 1 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 3 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 1,618 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.