Lake Illawarra crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
322 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 Lake Illawarra
Lake Illawarra is a coastal suburb and large lagoon locality situated in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, within the City of Shellharbour local government area (Postcode 2528). Positioned approximately 100 kilometres south of Sydney, the area is defined by its namesake shallow coastal lagoon, which covers roughly 32 square kilometres and is separated from the Tasman Sea by a narrow sand spit. Demographically, the suburb functions primarily as a residential area characterized by a mix of low-density housing, waterfront reserves, and established suburban communities that accommodate families and retirees alike.
Local life and amenities in Lake Illawarra are heavily centered around recreation, water sports, and community parks. The foreshore features extensive shared pathways, boat ramps, picnic facilities, and playgrounds, making the lake a popular destination for fishing, sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing. Commercial needs are supported by local shopping strips along major thoroughfares, while broader retail, educational, and healthcare services are accessible in the surrounding Shellharbour and Wollongong urban areas.
Prior to European settlement, the traditional custodians of the land surrounding the lake were the Wodi Wodi people of the Dharawal nation, who utilized the rich marine and bird life of the lagoon for sustenance. European exploration of the Illawarra began in the late 18th century, followed by agricultural settlement in the 19th century focused on dairy farming and timber getting. Over the 20th century, the area transitioned from a rural enclave to a suburban residential locality, supported by the post-war industrial expansion of the wider region.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Fraud | 40 | 36 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 29 | 20 |
| Malicious damage to property | 24 | 16 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 20 | 22 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 20 | 18 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 17 | 16 |
| Sexual assault | 15 | 5 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 15 | 12 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 14 | 7 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 14 | 12 |
| Breach bail conditions | 12 | 6 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 11 | 9 |
| Possession and/or use of amphetamines | 11 | 5 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 11 | 4 |
| Steal from dwelling | 8 | 7 |
| Other drug offences | 6 | 2 |
| Other offences | 6 | 6 |
| Receiving or handling stolen goods | 6 | 2 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 3,288 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.