Shoal Bay crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
230 recorded in this period, compared with 144 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Shoal Bay
Shoal Bay is a coastal suburb located within the Port Stephens local government area in New South Wales (postcode 2315). Situated on the southern shore of Port Stephens, the locality is defined by its namesake bay and the prominent headlands of Tomaree and Yacaaba. The area is largely residential and tourism-focused, characterized by a mix of permanent inhabitants and seasonal holidaymakers. Geographically, it serves as a gateway to the Tomaree National Park, which surrounds the eastern end of the suburb and provides extensive walking trails and elevated coastal lookouts.
The locality functions as a leisure-oriented community, featuring a popular esplanade lined with retail outlets, cafes, and restaurants overlooking the beach. The waterfront is a focal point for maritime activities, including swimming, kayaking, and recreational boating. Infrastructure supports a residential population that is served by primary commercial services in neighboring Nelson Bay, though Shoal Bay provides essential local amenities, public parklands, and diverse accommodation options. Historically, the area was utilized for its strategic maritime position and proximity to natural resources; following its early exploration and subsequent development in the 20th century, Shoal Bay transitioned from a quiet fishing and timber-getting outpost into a significant regional destination for domestic and international tourism.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Other offences | 60 | 16 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 29 | 11 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 19 | 26 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 17 | 7 |
| Malicious damage to property | 16 | 12 |
| Liquor offences | 10 | 6 |
| Other theft | 10 | 5 |
| Fraud | 8 | 5 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 8 | 6 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 7 | 2 |
| Sexual assault | 7 | 0 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 6 | 4 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 5 | 8 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 4 | 3 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 3 | 0 |
| Offensive conduct | 3 | 0 |
| Resist or hinder officer | 3 | 1 |
| Steal from dwelling | 3 | 3 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 1,815 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.