Stanwell Tops crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
14 recorded in this period, compared with 16 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Stanwell Tops
Stanwell Tops is a rural-residential locality situated on the Illawarra Escarpment in New South Wales, falling within the City of Wollongong local government area (postcode 2508). Perched approximately 240 meters above sea level, the area is characterized by its dramatic cliffside geography overlooking the Tasman Sea and its proximity to the Royal National Park. Demographically, the locality consists primarily of low-density residential housing and semi-rural properties, maintaining a small population that values its secluded, bushland-oriented environment.
The area is widely recognized as a premier destination for outdoor recreation, particularly hang gliding and paragliding, centered around the Bald Hill lookout which offers panoramic coastal views. Amenities in Stanwell Tops are modest, focusing on community-oriented facilities, including the Stanwell Tops Conference Centre and nearby educational sites. While the locality lacks a large commercial hub, residents rely on the neighboring suburbs of Stanwell Park and Helensburgh for essential services and transit connections, including access to the South Coast railway line.
Historically, the region served as a significant site for early European exploration and coal mining expansion in the Illawarra. The escarpment provided challenging terrain for early infrastructure, necessitating the construction of the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge to connect the coastal villages. Today, Stanwell Tops is protected by conservation efforts aimed at preserving its unique biodiversity and the integrity of the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area, ensuring the locality remains a buffer between urban development and protected wilderness.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 4 | 0 |
| Sexual touching, sexual act and other sexual offences | 3 | 4 |
| Malicious damage to property | 2 | 1 |
| Arson | 1 | 0 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 1 | 1 |
| Other drug offences | 1 | 1 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 1 | 2 |
| Sexual assault | 1 | 1 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 517 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.