Wardell crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
90 recorded in this period, compared with 108 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Wardell
Wardell is a rural village situated in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, located approximately 15 kilometers south of Ballina. Positioned along the banks of the Richmond River and falling within the Ballina Shire local government area, the locality is characterized by its riverside landscape and proximity to the Pacific Highway. The population is relatively small, comprising a mix of long-term rural residents and families drawn to the area’s tranquil, semi-rural setting.
The village serves as a quiet residential and agricultural hub, featuring basic community amenities including a primary school, a local hotel, and small-scale commercial services. The Richmond River remains central to local life, supporting recreational activities such as fishing and boating. Historically, Wardell was established during the mid-19th century and thrived as a significant river port, serving the region’s burgeoning timber and sugar cane industries. Today, it retains a heritage character reflective of its history as an early agricultural outpost, with several sites and structures marking its development during the colonial era.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Malicious damage to property | 14 | 7 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 11 | 9 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 6 | 6 |
| Breach bail conditions | 6 | 6 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 6 | 17 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 4 | 5 |
| Sexual assault | 4 | 3 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 4 | 2 |
| Arson | 3 | 0 |
| Break and enter non-dwelling | 3 | 5 |
| Fraud | 3 | 5 |
| Other theft | 3 | 1 |
| Steal from dwelling | 3 | 2 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 2 | 5 |
| Criminal intent | 2 | 2 |
| Cultivating cannabis | 2 | 1 |
| Motor vehicle theft | 2 | 5 |
| Other offences | 2 | 5 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 830 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.