Lemon Tree Passage crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
146 recorded in this period, compared with 206 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Lemon Tree Passage
Lemon Tree Passage is a coastal township and locality situated in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, within the Port Stephens local government area (Postcode 2319). Located approximately 200 kilometres north of Sydney and 50 kilometres north-east of Newcastle, the village occupies a peninsula bounded by the waters of the Port Stephens estuary, specifically Caswell Bay and the Karuah River delta. According to the 2021 Australian census, the locality supports a population of approximately 3,000 residents, characterised by a higher-than-average median age due to its popularity as a retirement destination.
The local economy and lifestyle are heavily oriented around coastal recreation, tourism, and retirement living. Amenities within Lemon Tree Passage include a small commercial shopping strip featuring local supermarkets, cafes, and specialty stores, alongside medical and community services. The waterfront location supports extensive maritime activities, including recreational fishing, boating, and sailing, with public boat ramps and jetties situated along the foreshore. Regular bus services connect the locality to nearby commercial hubs such as Raymond Terrace and Nelson Bay.
European settlement in the wider Port Stephens area dates back to the early 19th century, initially driven by the timber and agricultural industries. The origin of the locality's unusual name is historically attributed to an abundance of wild lemon trees planted by early settlers or shipwreck survivors near the waterfront. Originally a quiet fishing village and holiday shack settlement, Lemon Tree Passage gradually experienced residential expansion from the late 20th century onward, transforming into a permanent suburban community while retaining its distinct coastal character.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 24 | 27 |
| Other offences | 20 | 34 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 14 | 23 |
| Malicious damage to property | 14 | 18 |
| Fraud | 13 | 13 |
| Breach bail conditions | 8 | 6 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 7 | 12 |
| Sexual assault | 7 | 11 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 6 | 2 |
| Other theft | 6 | 6 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 4 | 6 |
| Trespass | 4 | 4 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 2 | 5 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 2 | 5 |
| Steal from dwelling | 2 | 4 |
| Arson | 1 | 0 |
| Blackmail and extortion | 1 | 1 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 1 | 3 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 2,686 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.