Melinga crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
7 recorded in this period, compared with 4 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Melinga
Melinga is a rural locality situated in the Mid-Coast Council local government area of New South Wales, within the 2430 postcode. Geographically positioned north of Taree, the area is characterized by low-lying floodplains, agricultural land, and proximity to the Manning River catchment. Due to its rural nature, Melinga has a small, dispersed population primarily engaged in primary production, livestock grazing, and related agricultural industries.
Local life in Melinga is defined by its quiet, agrarian setting. The locality lacks a major commercial centre, relying instead on nearby towns such as Taree and Wingham for essential services, retail, schooling, and healthcare. Infrastructure within Melinga largely consists of rural residential properties and farm holdings connected by local council roads, with the Pacific Highway passing nearby to provide broader regional connectivity.
Historically, the area was developed following European settlement in the Manning River district, which focused heavily on timber-getting, dairy farming, and agriculture. The traditional custodians of the land are the Birpai people. Over time, Melinga transitioned from early pioneering settlements and transport routes into a stable, quiet farming community integrated into the broader Mid-Coast region.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Arson | 2 | 1 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 1 | 0 |
| Cultivating cannabis | 1 | 0 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 1 | 0 |
| Other theft | 1 | 0 |
| Steal from dwelling | 1 | 1 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 112 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.