Kotara crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
771 recorded in this period, compared with 830 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Kotara
Kotara is a residential and commercial suburb located in the City of Newcastle local government area of New South Wales, within the 2289 postcode. Situated approximately nine kilometres southwest of Newcastle's central business district, the suburb is geographically positioned near the base of the Great Dividing Range foothills. It is primarily bounded by major transport corridors and natural bushland areas, offering a mix of suburban housing and significant commercial developments that serve the broader Hunter region.
The suburb is best known as a major retail hub, anchored by Westfield Kotara, a significant shopping centre in the region, which provides extensive dining, retail, and entertainment options. Local life is further supported by smaller commercial strips, parks, sporting facilities, and local schools, making it a prominent commercial and residential centre within the City of Newcastle. Transport access is facilitated by the Pacific Highway and the Main Northern railway line, with Kotara railway station providing regular commuter services to Newcastle, Maitland, and Sydney.
Historically, the area developed in the mid-20th century as post-war expansion pushed Newcastle's population outward into surrounding bushland and former mining tracts. The name "Kotara" is derived from an Aboriginal word meaning "kookaburra." Over subsequent decades, the suburb transitioned from a quiet residential offshoot into a major commercial destination, largely catalyzed by the establishment and continuous expansion of its regional shopping centre complex.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Steal from retail store | 292 | 360 |
| Transport regulatory offences | 115 | 85 |
| Fraud | 40 | 31 |
| Malicious damage to property | 40 | 41 |
| Other theft | 32 | 51 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 29 | 39 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 26 | 30 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 22 | 19 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 18 | 18 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 18 | 21 |
| Breach bail conditions | 15 | 15 |
| Receiving or handling stolen goods | 14 | 9 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 10 | 2 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 9 | 5 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 9 | 19 |
| Trespass | 8 | 13 |
| Possession and/or use of amphetamines | 7 | 8 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 7 | 7 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 3,980 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.