Port Stephens crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
4 recorded in this period, compared with 1 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Port Stephens
Port Stephens is a coastal local government area located in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, situated approximately 160 kilometres north of Sydney. Characterised by its namesake natural harbour, the region encompasses a diverse landscape of volcanic headlands, sandy beaches, and protected estuaries, including the Myall Lakes National Park to the north. Settlement patterns are concentrated in the urban centres of Raymond Terrace and Medowie, and the coastal tourist hubs of Nelson Bay and Soldiers Point.
The local economy is driven by a mix of tourism, defence, and agriculture. The area hosts the RAAF Base Williamtown—Australia’s primary fighter pilot base—which serves as a major regional employer alongside the adjacent Newcastle Airport. Residents have access to a comprehensive range of amenities, including several shopping precincts, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. The region’s extensive waterways and national parks provide significant recreational opportunities, contributing to its reputation as a centre for eco-tourism and maritime activities.
The history of the area is deeply rooted in the heritage of the Worimi people, the Traditional Custodians of the land, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. European exploration began in 1770 when Lieutenant James Cook sighted the harbour, which he named in honour of Sir Philip Stephens. Permanent European settlement was established in the early 19th century, initially functioning as a site for cedar logging and limestone quarrying. Today, the area preserves its historical significance through various cultural sites and heritage buildings that reflect its evolution into a prominent regional centre.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Other offences | 4 | 0 |
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.