Oswald crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
5 recorded in this period, compared with 0 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Oswald
Oswald is a semi-rural locality situated in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, within the City of Maitland local government area and the 2321 postcode. Geographically, the area is characterised by low-lying rural expanses and agricultural land, bordered by transport corridors connecting the regional hubs of Maitland and Singleton. Demographically, Oswald maintains a very small, dispersed population typical of rural residential zones in the Lower Hunter, with residents largely commuting to nearby urban centres for employment and services.
Due to its rural-residential nature, Oswald has limited local commercial amenities, relying instead on neighbouring suburbs such as Lorn, Rutherford, and Maitland for retail, healthcare, and educational facilities. The locality is traversed by major infrastructure routes, including the New England Highway, which facilitates regional connectivity. The landscape is primarily utilized for low-intensity agriculture, lifestyle properties, and supporting infrastructure.
European settlement in the area dates back to the early 19th century following the expansion of the Hunter Valley pastoral and agricultural industries. The locality's historical development is closely tied to the broader colonial history of the Maitland district, originally inhabited by the Wonnarua people. While Oswald does not feature a prominent commercial village centre, its historical footprint persists through its rural land-use patterns and proximity to several heritage-listed sites within the wider Maitland local government area.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Break and enter dwelling | 2 | 0 |
| Malicious damage to property | 1 | 0 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 1 | 0 |
| Steal from dwelling | 1 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 88 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.