Waratah crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
1,460 recorded in this period, compared with 1,225 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Waratah
Waratah is a suburb located within the City of Newcastle in New South Wales, situated approximately six kilometres northwest of the Newcastle central business district. Characterised by a mix of residential, commercial, and institutional land use, the suburb occupies a strategic position along the main rail corridor and the arterial road network leading into the city. Demographically, the area is diverse, housing a stable population that includes a mix of long-term residents, students, and professionals attracted by its central location and proximity to the University of Newcastle’s Callaghan campus.
The suburb serves as a significant service hub, notably housing the Mater Misericordiae Hospital, which is a major employer and healthcare facility for the region. Local amenities include the Waratah Village shopping centre, various primary and secondary schools, and several public parks, such as the expansive Waratah Park. Its heritage is marked by a collection of late 19th and early 20th-century architecture, reflecting its development following the expansion of the Great Northern Railway. Formerly an independent municipality incorporated in 1871, the area was progressively integrated into the City of Newcastle, leaving behind a legacy of historic streetscapes and civic landmarks that define its local character.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Breach bail conditions | 742 | 648 |
| Transport regulatory offences | 132 | 73 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 72 | 56 |
| Malicious damage to property | 47 | 60 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 45 | 63 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 39 | 33 |
| Fraud | 37 | 30 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 35 | 35 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 33 | 29 |
| Other theft | 21 | 13 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 20 | 12 |
| Possession and/or use of amphetamines | 20 | 6 |
| Sexual assault | 20 | 8 |
| Steal from retail store | 20 | 32 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 17 | 3 |
| Steal from dwelling | 17 | 10 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 16 | 17 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 15 | 12 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 4,927 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.