Nelson Bay crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
646 recorded in this period, compared with 669 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Nelson Bay
Nelson Bay is a coastal town located in the Port Stephens region of New South Wales, within the Port Stephens local government area and bearing the postcode 2315. Situated approximately 60 kilometres north-east of Newcastle, the locality sits on the southern shore of the large natural harbour of Port Stephens. According to the 2021 Australian census, Nelson Bay recorded a permanent resident population of approximately 7,700 people, though this figure swells significantly during peak holiday periods due to tourism.
Local life in Nelson Bay is heavily centred around marine tourism, retail, and commercial fishing. The town serves as a major hub for whale watching, dolphin cruises, and recreational diving within the Great Lakes Marine Park. Essential amenities include a marina, a central business district with supermarkets and specialty shops, healthcare services, and local schools. Shoal Bay and other surrounding beaches are integral to the area's lifestyle and economy, supporting a strong hospitality and accommodation sector.
Historically, the area was traditionally inhabited by the Worimi people, who utilized the rich coastal resources and waters of Port Stephens for sustenance and cultural practices. European presence in the region began in the early 19th century, initially driven by timber-cutting, fishing, and maritime activities. Over the 20th century, Nelson Bay transitioned from a remote fishing settlement into a popular holiday destination while retaining its maritime heritage.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Other offences | 121 | 156 |
| Breach bail conditions | 96 | 75 |
| Malicious damage to property | 64 | 39 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 49 | 44 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 47 | 50 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 31 | 22 |
| Other theft | 25 | 25 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 19 | 26 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 18 | 44 |
| Fraud | 17 | 31 |
| Steal from retail store | 16 | 10 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 14 | 14 |
| Sexual assault | 13 | 5 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 12 | 9 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 12 | 5 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 11 | 19 |
| Steal from dwelling | 11 | 17 |
| Possession and/or use of amphetamines | 8 | 21 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 6,141 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.