Muswellbrook crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
2,020 recorded in this period, compared with 1,768 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Muswellbrook
Muswellbrook is a town and locality situated in the Upper Hunter region of New South Wales, positioned approximately 120 kilometres northwest of Newcastle. It serves as the primary administrative and commercial centre for the Muswellbrook Shire local government area within the 2333 postcode district. The surrounding geography is defined by the Hunter River valley, characterised by flat agricultural floodplains bordered by undulating hills and ranges. The local economy is historically and predominantly driven by open-cut coal mining and thoroughbred horse breeding, alongside traditional agricultural pursuits such as beef cattle and viticulture.
The town provides a comprehensive range of commercial, educational, and medical amenities to support its residents and the broader rural community. Essential infrastructure includes local public and private schools, a TAFE NSW campus, the Muswellbrook District Hospital, and a variety of retail and dining precincts. Recreational facilities are well-represented through local sporting fields, parks, golf courses, and the Muswellbrook Aquatic Centre. The area is connected to the broader region via the New England Highway and the Main Northern railway line, facilitating transport and freight access.
European settlement in the area dates back to the early 19th century, following exploration of the Hunter Valley by pioneer John Howe in 1819. Originally known as Muscle Brook—reportedly named after the freshwater mussels found in the local creek—the town was officially surveyed and named Muswellbrook in the mid-1830s. The region retains a rich architectural heritage, featuring several preserved 19th-century civic buildings, churches, and homesteads. The Muswellbrook Regional Arts Centre, which houses a notable collection of contemporary Australian art and ceramics, is a significant cultural landmark for the area.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 266 | 177 |
| Breach bail conditions | 238 | 173 |
| Malicious damage to property | 174 | 185 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 159 | 102 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 158 | 144 |
| Steal from retail store | 106 | 65 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 84 | 118 |
| Other theft | 75 | 47 |
| Fraud | 68 | 78 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 67 | 63 |
| Steal from dwelling | 65 | 96 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 60 | 48 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 50 | 34 |
| Sexual assault | 40 | 59 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 40 | 60 |
| Trespass | 40 | 24 |
| Arson | 38 | 9 |
| Other offences | 34 | 22 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 12,272 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.