Matcham crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
17 recorded in this period, compared with 21 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Matcham
Matcham is a semi-rural locality situated in the Central Coast region of New South Wales, within the 2250 postcode and the Central Coast Council local government area. Located approximately 70 kilometres north of Sydney and just inland from Terrigal, the area is characterised by a topography of rolling hills, dense bushland, and cleared acreage. Demographically, Matcham is a low-density residential community that appeals to families and retirees seeking a rural lifestyle in close proximity to regional urban centres and coastal beaches.
The local lifestyle is defined by agriculture, horticulture, and acreage living, with numerous properties dedicated to acreage homes, small-scale farming, and horse agistment. While Matcham itself maintains a quiet, rural character with limited commercial development, it relies on neighbouring suburbs such as Erina and Terrigal for major retail, educational, and healthcare amenities. The locality is primarily traversed by Matcham Road, connecting the rural interior to the wider Central Coast transport network.
Historically, the area was traditionally inhabited by the Darkinjung people before European settlement in the 19th century. Early European land use focused heavily on timber-getting, agriculture, and citrus orcharding, taking advantage of the fertile soil and reliable rainfall. Over the latter half of the 20th century, much of the historical farming land was progressively subdivided into rural-residential properties, shifting the local economy away from primary production while retaining the area's rural aesthetic and heritage.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Fraud | 3 | 4 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 2 | 1 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 2 | 0 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 2 | 1 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 2 | 1 |
| Arson | 1 | 2 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 1 | 0 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 1 | 4 |
| Other offences against the person | 1 | 0 |
| Sexual assault | 1 | 0 |
| Trespass | 1 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 1,038 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.