Oak Flats crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
1,043 recorded in this period, compared with 1,054 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Oak Flats
Oak Flats is a residential suburb located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, situated within the City of Shellharbour local government area under the postcode 2529. Geographically positioned on the southern shores of Lake Illawarra, the locality is primarily residential in character, featuring a mix of traditional housing and modern developments. According to the Australian census, the suburb supports a diverse community with a stable population profile typical of the greater Wollongong metropolitan commuter belt.
Local life and amenities in Oak Flats are centered around its established commercial strip along Central Avenue, which provides a range of retail stores, essential services, and dining options for residents. The suburb is serviced by public transport links, including the Oak Flats railway station on the South Coast line, providing direct access to Wollongong and Sydney. Educational and recreational needs are met by local public schools, sports facilities, and several parks, with proximity to the lake offering opportunities for water-based activities and outdoor recreation.
Historically, the area transitioned from a rural and agricultural landscape into a residential suburb, spurred by post-World War II development and the expansion of the region's industrial workforce, particularly associated with nearby Port Kembla. The establishment of the railway in the late 19th century initially facilitated agricultural transport before paving the way for suburban growth. Today, Oak Flats retains elements of its mid-20th-century development history while functioning as an integral part of the Shellharbour municipality.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Breach bail conditions | 607 | 596 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 59 | 43 |
| Transport regulatory offences | 45 | 26 |
| Malicious damage to property | 29 | 38 |
| Fraud | 28 | 34 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 24 | 24 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 23 | 21 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 19 | 14 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 17 | 43 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 16 | 21 |
| Other theft | 15 | 11 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 14 | 12 |
| Sexual assault | 12 | 11 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 11 | 15 |
| Assault Police | 10 | 9 |
| Other offences | 10 | 3 |
| Resist or hinder officer | 10 | 6 |
| Possession and/or use of amphetamines | 9 | 18 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 6,840 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.