Tenterfield LGA crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
599 recorded in this period, compared with 844 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Tenterfield
The Tenterfield Shire is a local government area located in the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales, bordering Queensland to the north. Covering approximately 7,300 square kilometers, the region is defined by its rugged landscape, which encompasses expansive national parks, granite-strewn highlands, and deep river valleys. The population is primarily centered in the town of Tenterfield, with the remainder of the shire characterized by rural localities and agricultural holdings. The demographic profile is largely rural, with the economy historically driven by sheep and cattle grazing, timber production, and, increasingly, cool-climate viticulture and tourism.
The shire serves as a regional service hub, offering essential amenities including primary and secondary schooling, health services, and community recreational facilities. Tenterfield’s local life is influenced by its proximity to the Great Dividing Range, fostering a climate noted for its distinct four seasons. Heritage is a significant component of the local identity; Tenterfield is widely recognized as the "Birthplace of the Nation," as it was the site of Sir Henry Parkes’ 1889 Tenterfield Oration, which catalyzed the federation of the Australian colonies. The town maintains a well-preserved streetscape, featuring various colonial-era buildings, museums, and historical landmarks that attract visitors interested in Australia’s political and agricultural history.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Harassment threatening | 84 | 118 |
| Malicious damage to property | 75 | 112 |
| Assault - domestic violence | 58 | 70 |
| Arson | 43 | 16 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 38 | 42 |
| Breach AVO | 35 | 62 |
| Assault - non-domestic violence | 29 | 28 |
| Trespass | 29 | 50 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 27 | 22 |
| Prohibited weapons offences | 27 | 36 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 26 | 24 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 21 | 24 |
| Fraud | 20 | 25 |
| Other theft | 18 | 45 |
| Steal from dwelling | 17 | 21 |
| Breach bail conditions | 15 | 34 |
| Sexual Offences | 15 | 30 |
| Possession use of cannabis | 7 | 8 |
| Steal from retail store | 6 | 14 |
| Offensive conduct | 4 | 23 |
| Receiving stolen goods | 2 | 17 |
| Offensive language | 1 | 3 |
| Robbery | 1 | 2 |
| Steal from person | 1 | 2 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 6,810 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
- Tenterfield
- Tabulam
- Drake
- Urbenville
- Woodenbong
- Jennings
- Drake Village
- Rocky River (Tenterfield)
- Torrington
- Boorook
- Maryland (Tenterfield)
- Mole River
- Legume
- Stannum
- Mingoola
- Sandy Hill
- Back Creek (Tenterfield)
- Woodside
- Acacia Creek
- Boonoo Boonoo
- Cullendore
- Amosfield
- Dumaresq Valley
- Koreelah
- Liston
- Lower Acacia Creek
- Ruby Creek
- Sandy Flat
- Silent Grove
- Tarban
- Undercliffe
- Upper Tooloom
- Willsons Downfall
- Bolivia
- Cottonvale
- Forest Land
- Rivertree
- Timbarra
- Wylie Creek