Port Stephens LGA crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
5,236 recorded in this period, compared with 4,922 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Port Stephens
Port Stephens is a local government area located in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, situated approximately 160 kilometres north of Sydney. Geographically, it is defined by its namesake natural harbour, extensive ocean beaches, and coastal hinterland, which transitions into rural and forested areas further inland. The region is home to a diverse population residing in a mix of coastal tourist hubs, suburban centres such as Raymond Terrace and Medowie, and semi-rural localities. Its economy is supported by a combination of tourism, defence operations associated with RAAF Base Williamtown, and a growing residential sector.
The area is characterised by a strong focus on outdoor recreation, supported by numerous national parks, marine reserves, and waterways. Residents and visitors access a variety of amenities, including retail precincts in Raymond Terrace and Salamander Bay, regional healthcare facilities, and diverse educational infrastructure. Historically, the region is the traditional land of the Worimi people, whose deep cultural connection to the area continues to be significant. Following European settlement in the early 19th century, the region developed through agriculture, timber harvesting, and maritime industries, eventually evolving into its present-day role as both a vital commercial centre for the Hunter and a major holiday destination.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Breach bail conditions | 639 | 496 |
| Harassment threatening | 623 | 621 |
| Assault - domestic violence | 538 | 517 |
| Malicious damage to property | 500 | 474 |
| Fraud | 379 | 362 |
| Breach AVO | 315 | 308 |
| Assault - non-domestic violence | 298 | 312 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 264 | 194 |
| Sexual Offences | 250 | 255 |
| Steal from retail store | 204 | 169 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 174 | 153 |
| Other theft | 170 | 134 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 130 | 183 |
| Steal from dwelling | 122 | 116 |
| Prohibited weapons offences | 120 | 118 |
| Trespass | 97 | 149 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 92 | 89 |
| Possession use of cannabis | 91 | 68 |
| Arson | 59 | 36 |
| Receiving stolen goods | 48 | 34 |
| Resist or hinder officer | 43 | 50 |
| Liquor offences | 40 | 35 |
| Offensive conduct | 17 | 10 |
| Robbery | 13 | 5 |
| Steal from person | 6 | 10 |
| Transport regulatory offences | 3 | 22 |
| Offensive language | 1 | 2 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 75,276 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.
Related areas
- Raymond Terrace
- Nelson Bay
- Medowie
- Salamander Bay
- Tanilba Bay
- Heatherbrae
- Shoal Bay
- Corlette
- Anna Bay
- Karuah
- Lemon Tree Passage
- Fingal Bay
- Soldiers Point
- Salt Ash
- Fern Bay
- Williamtown
- Mallabula
- Tomago
- Bobs Farm
- Seaham
- Taylors Beach
- One Mile
- Ferodale
- Fullerton Cove
- Boat Harbour (Port Stephens)
- Swan Bay (Port Stephens)
- Twelve Mile Creek
- Wallalong
- East Seaham
- Duns Creek
- Nelsons Plains
- Glen Oak
- Hinton
- Oyster Cove
- Woodville
- Balickera
- Brandy Hill
- Campvale
- Port Stephens
- Eagleton
- Butterwick
- Fishermans Bay
- Osterley
- Tilligerry Creek