Shell Cove crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
249 recorded in this period, compared with 232 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Shell Cove
Shell Cove is a coastal suburb located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, approximately 20 kilometres south of Wollongong. Situated within the City of Shellharbour local government area (postcode 2529), the suburb is defined by its prominent position on the coastline, featuring the Shellharbour Marina and frontage to the Tasman Sea. The area has experienced significant population growth following large-scale residential development, transforming from a semi-rural landscape into a master-planned community. Its demographic profile is largely characterized by families and professionals attracted to the coastal lifestyle and proximity to the regional hub of Shellharbour City Centre.
The suburb is anchored by the Waterfront Marina precinct, which serves as a central hub for dining, retail, and recreational activities. Amenities include a public boat harbour, extensive walking trails, and direct access to local beaches such as The Farm at Killalea Regional Park. Historically, the area was once part of the broader Shellharbour pastoral district, with its name derived from the abundance of shells found along its shoreline. While early European settlement focused on agriculture and grazing, the modern landscape is dominated by contemporary residential architecture, though it maintains connections to the region's natural heritage through the preservation of the nearby Killalea State Park.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Malicious damage to property | 25 | 25 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 24 | 32 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 24 | 28 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 22 | 10 |
| Other theft | 17 | 12 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 16 | 14 |
| Fraud | 16 | 10 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 13 | 16 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 12 | 17 |
| Steal from retail store | 10 | 4 |
| Breach bail conditions | 9 | 3 |
| Trespass | 8 | 6 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 7 | 15 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 7 | 1 |
| Liquor offences | 7 | 2 |
| Other offences | 7 | 4 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 5 | 5 |
| Steal from dwelling | 4 | 11 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 7,591 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.