Lake Cathie crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
175 recorded in this period, compared with 166 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Lake Cathie
Lake Cathie is a coastal locality in the Port Macquarie-Hastings council area of New South Wales, bearing the postcode 2445. Situated approximately 20 kilometres south of Port Macquarie, the area is defined geographically by its coastal setting, featuring the tidal lake system of Lake Cathie, native bushland, and extensive surf beaches. According to census data, the locality has experienced significant residential growth in recent years, evolving from a quiet holiday settlement into a popular suburban and retirement destination with a steadily increasing permanent population.
Local life in Lake Cathie is centered around outdoor recreation, with the lake and beaches providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding. The commercial amenities are concentrated around a local shopping hub containing a supermarket, specialty stores, and medical services, which cater to the daily needs of residents. Educational and broader civic services are easily accessed via nearby commercial centers and Port Macquarie.
Historically, the area takes its name from the local lake, with "Cathie" believed to be derived from an Aboriginal word. Traditionally inhabited by the Birpai people, the area saw European settlement in the 19th century, initially driven by timber-getting, agriculture, and coastal shipping. Over the 20th century, Lake Cathie transitioned from an isolated fishing and camping retreat into a permanent residential community while retaining much of its natural landscape and coastal character.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 21 | 20 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 17 | 15 |
| Malicious damage to property | 15 | 18 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 13 | 11 |
| Steal from dwelling | 12 | 11 |
| Fraud | 11 | 15 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 11 | 5 |
| Breach bail conditions | 10 | 3 |
| Liquor offences | 9 | 6 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 7 | 6 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 7 | 5 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 6 | 2 |
| Other offences | 5 | 5 |
| Sexual assault | 5 | 5 |
| Other theft | 4 | 5 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 4 | 3 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 3 | 5 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 2 | 4 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 4,296 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.