Broken Hill LGA crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
2,939 recorded in this period, compared with 2,496 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Broken Hill
Broken Hill is a remote city situated in the far west of New South Wales, near the South Australian border. As a geographically isolated urban center surrounded by arid desert, it functions as a major service hub for the surrounding region. Demographically, the city is home to a diverse population that reflects its industrial roots and long-standing role as a center for mining and pastoral activities. Despite its distance from major metropolitan areas, the city maintains a distinct identity defined by its harsh environment and expansive, semi-arid landscape.
The city offers a range of civic amenities, including healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and a robust arts community. Local life is heavily influenced by the mining industry, which remains a primary economic driver, alongside a growing tourism sector centered on the region’s unique outback scenery. Infrastructure in Broken Hill is designed to support both the local population and the surrounding rural communities, featuring public parks, cultural centers, and specialized heritage sites that cater to both residents and visitors.
Historically, Broken Hill was founded in the late 19th century following the discovery of significant silver, lead, and zinc deposits. This led to its development as one of the most prominent mining centers in Australia. The city is renowned for its industrial heritage, which is preserved through various museums and the town's distinct architectural character. It is recognized as Australia's first city to be included on the National Heritage List, acknowledging its pivotal contribution to the nation’s economic and labor history.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Breach bail conditions | 486 | 368 |
| Harassment threatening | 330 | 273 |
| Assault - domestic violence | 299 | 265 |
| Malicious damage to property | 286 | 240 |
| Breach AVO | 262 | 195 |
| Assault - non-domestic violence | 134 | 109 |
| Trespass | 109 | 95 |
| Possession use of cannabis | 103 | 85 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 100 | 113 |
| Prohibited weapons offences | 99 | 78 |
| Receiving stolen goods | 96 | 35 |
| Sexual Offences | 92 | 91 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 87 | 108 |
| Steal from retail store | 78 | 73 |
| Steal from dwelling | 66 | 83 |
| Fraud | 59 | 51 |
| Resist or hinder officer | 59 | 48 |
| Other theft | 47 | 49 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 36 | 38 |
| Offensive conduct | 35 | 15 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 34 | 41 |
| Liquor offences | 14 | 20 |
| Arson | 10 | 10 |
| Offensive language | 7 | 3 |
| Robbery | 6 | 4 |
| Steal from person | 4 | 6 |
| Transport regulatory offences | 1 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 17,588 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.