McLeans Ridges crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
17 recorded in this period, compared with 9 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About McLeans Ridges
McLeans Ridges is a rural locality situated in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, within the Lismore City Council local government area and bearing the postcode 2480. Geographically characterized by elevated, undulating terrain, the area offers expansive views of the surrounding valleys and is defined by its fertile volcanic soils. The population is predominantly low-density, consisting of acreage holders, families, and agriculturalists engaged in small-scale farming and horticulture typical of the hinterland behind Lismore.
Due to its strictly rural residential and agricultural nature, McLeans Ridges contains minimal commercial infrastructure, relying instead on nearby urban centres such as Lismore for major retail, educational, and healthcare services. Local life is community-oriented and centered around rural living, private properties, and cottage industries. The locality is connected by a network of winding rural roads that link residents to neighboring settlements like Bexhill and Nimbin Road.
European settlement in the McLeans Ridges area dates back to the 19th century, driven initially by the lucrative timber industry that targeted the region's vast "Big Scrub" rainforests. Following the clearing of the cedar and other hardwoods, the land was subdivided and repurposed for dairy farming and agriculture. The locality preserves its historical connection to the early pioneering era through its enduring rural land-use patterns and heritage associations with the broader Richmond River district.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 3 | 0 |
| Arson | 2 | 0 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 2 | 1 |
| Malicious damage to property | 2 | 2 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 2 | 0 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 1 | 2 |
| Fraud | 1 | 1 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 1 | 1 |
| Sexual assault | 1 | 1 |
| Steal from dwelling | 1 | 0 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 1 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 808 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.