Central Coast LGA crime statistics

Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06

26,805 recorded in this period, compared with 27,091 in the preceding period.

LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.

About Central Coast

The Central Coast Council local government area is located on the coast of New South Wales, situated between the Sydney metropolitan area to the south and the Newcastle region to the north. Spanning approximately 1,681 square kilometres, its geography is defined by a diverse landscape of coastal beaches, expansive national parks, and the large estuarine system of Brisbane Water and Tuggerah Lakes. Demographically, it is a populous local government area in Australia, serving as a significant residential hub for commuters to Sydney while maintaining a distinct regional identity characterized by a mix of suburban coastal towns and semi-rural hinterlands.

The region offers a robust array of amenities, featuring major shopping precincts, comprehensive healthcare facilities, and diverse educational institutions. Its local economy is supported by tourism, retail, health services, and manufacturing, complemented by extensive recreational opportunities such as surfing, bushwalking, and boating. The area is well-connected by the M1 Pacific Motorway and the Main North railway line, which facilitates transit for both local residents and regional visitors.

The history of the Central Coast is rooted in the traditional custodianship of the Darkinjung, Guringai, and Awabakal peoples. European settlement began in the early 19th century, primarily driven by the timber industry and small-scale agriculture. The region’s development accelerated following the opening of the railway in the late 1880s, which transformed the area from isolated outposts into a popular retreat. In 2016, the former Gosford City and Wyong Shire councils were amalgamated to form the present Central Coast Council.

Recorded offence categories

CategoryCurrent periodPrevious period
Breach bail conditions3,4832,908
Harassment threatening2,8962,767
Transport regulatory offences2,4763,696
Malicious damage to property2,3452,354
Assault - domestic violence1,9321,983
Breach AVO1,5901,458
Assault - non-domestic violence1,5221,635
Fraud1,4921,555
Steal from retail store1,3501,325
Sexual Offences1,1371,241
Steal from motor vehicle1,0681,192
Break and enter dwelling811622
Other theft737610
Motor vehicle theft575589
Steal from dwelling538499
Prohibited weapons offences527537
Possession use of cannabis494405
Trespass460432
Resist or hinder officer348320
Break and enter non-dwelling282254
Receiving stolen goods234190
Arson191188
Offensive conduct8271
Liquor offences7086
Robbery6688
Steal from person6046
Offensive language3940

Community context

The 2021 Census recorded 346,596 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.

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