Merimbula crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
239 recorded in this period, compared with 314 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Merimbula
Merimbula is a coastal town located in the Bega Valley Shire on the Far South Coast of New South Wales, within the postcode 2548. Centred around a large, tidal lake system that opens to the Tasman Sea, the locality features extensive beaches, headlands, and coastal wetlands. Demographically, the town functions as a key residential and commercial hub within the broader Bega Valley local government area, experiencing significant seasonal population increases due to tourism.
The local economy is heavily anchored by tourism, retail, and commercial fishing, particularly renowned for the cultivation of Sydney Rock Oysters. Merimbula offers essential civic amenities, including healthcare services, primary schooling, retail shopping precincts, and Merimbula Airport, which provides regional flight connections. Recreational infrastructure is prominent, featuring facilities for boating, fishing, surfing, and golf, alongside protected coastal reserves.
Prior to European settlement, the area was traditionally inhabited by the Yuin people, who utilized the rich marine and estuarine resources of the lake and coastline. European presence in the Bega Valley expanded in the 19th century with the establishment of pastoral runs, followed by maritime trade and timber industries that utilized Merimbula Lake as a port. Over the 20th century, the town gradually transitioned from an agricultural and shipping port into a prominent regional tourism and lifestyle destination.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Steal from retail store | 31 | 20 |
| Malicious damage to property | 30 | 36 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 20 | 21 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 17 | 12 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 17 | 22 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 15 | 20 |
| Fraud | 14 | 17 |
| Other theft | 14 | 14 |
| Liquor offences | 11 | 6 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 10 | 8 |
| Other offences | 8 | 56 |
| Breach bail conditions | 5 | 12 |
| Sexual assault | 5 | 4 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 5 | 0 |
| Trespass | 5 | 14 |
| Assault Police | 4 | 1 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 3 | 4 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 3 | 5 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 3,821 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.