Sandy Beach crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
174 recorded in this period, compared with 147 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Sandy Beach
Sandy Beach is a coastal locality situated within the City of Coffs Harbour local government area on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, holding the postcode 2456. Positioned between the larger regional centers of Woolgoolga to the north and Emerald Beach to the south, the area is defined by its namesake stretch of coastline, which is bordered by rugged headlands and native coastal vegetation. Demographically, the locality functions primarily as a residential suburb, characterized by a mix of permanent households and holiday accommodation, serving those who seek a quiet environment within commuting distance of Coffs Harbour.
The local lifestyle is centered on outdoor recreation, particularly surfing, swimming, and coastal walking, with the beach remaining the primary amenity for both residents and visitors. Development is largely low-density, maintaining a semi-rural aesthetic with limited commercial infrastructure, necessitating travel to nearby Woolgoolga for essential services, retail, and primary education. Historically, the area was part of the traditional lands of the Gumbaynggirr people, who maintained a long-standing connection to the coastal environment. Following European settlement, the region transitioned through phases of timber harvesting and agricultural development before evolving into its current status as a residential and tourism-focused community.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 26 | 11 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 21 | 16 |
| Malicious damage to property | 19 | 16 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 16 | 20 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 13 | 6 |
| Breach bail conditions | 12 | 7 |
| Sexual assault | 12 | 6 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 9 | 5 |
| Steal from dwelling | 6 | 5 |
| Arson | 5 | 3 |
| Fraud | 5 | 4 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 5 | 8 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 4 | 2 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 4 | 6 |
| Resist or hinder officer | 3 | 3 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 3 | 3 |
| Trespass | 3 | 6 |
| Possession and/or use of other drugs | 2 | 0 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 2,913 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.