Nowra crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
3,262 recorded in this period, compared with 3,078 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Nowra
Nowra is a major regional town located in the Shoalhaven region of New South Wales, situated approximately 160 kilometres south of Sydney along the banks of the Shoalhaven River. As the primary administrative and commercial hub of the City of Shoalhaven local government area (postcode 2541), the town and its immediate surrounds support a growing population characterized by a mix of families, retirees, and service-sector workers. The surrounding geography is defined by the coastal plain, proximity to Jervis Bay, and the dramatic backdrop of the Illawarra escarpment.
The town functions as a key commercial centre for the region, offering comprehensive retail precincts, medical facilities, educational institutions, and public services. Local life is heavily influenced by the natural environment, with the Shoalhaven River providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and recreation, while nearby national parks and beaches support a steady tourism industry. Nowra is also home to the nearby HMAS Albatross naval air station, which is a significant employer and economic driver for the local community.
Prior to European settlement, the area was traditional land of the Wodi Wodi and Wandandian people of the Yuin nation, who utilized the rich riverine and coastal resources. European exploration of the Shoalhaven district began in the early 19th century, with pastoral settlement following soon after. The town of Nowra was officially proclaimed in 1859, and its heritage is preserved today through several historic buildings, bridges, and cultural sites that reflect its development as an agricultural and timber-milling hub.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Breach bail conditions | 601 | 586 |
| Steal from retail store | 343 | 334 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 278 | 282 |
| Malicious damage to property | 263 | 287 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 207 | 187 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 207 | 216 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 193 | 176 |
| Fraud | 95 | 89 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 91 | 84 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 85 | 72 |
| Other theft | 85 | 64 |
| Sexual assault | 77 | 80 |
| Trespass | 74 | 57 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 73 | 64 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 69 | 54 |
| Steal from dwelling | 53 | 51 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 47 | 31 |
| Possession and/or use of amphetamines | 45 | 33 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 9,956 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.