Waterloo crime statistics
Reporting period: 2025-07 – 2026-06
2,430 recorded in this period, compared with 2,224 in the preceding period.
LGA totals use the selected offence categories. Locality counts and population-adjusted LGA rates are different measures.
About Waterloo
Waterloo (postcode 2017) is a high-density, inner-city suburb located three kilometers south of the Sydney central business district, falling under the jurisdiction of the City of Sydney. Geographically, it is part of the traditional lands of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation and is characterized by a mix of historical housing and modern apartment developments. The suburb is home to a diverse population, with a notable demographic presence of low-to-middle-income earners and social housing residents, alongside a growing cohort of young professionals attracted by its proximity to the city center and the Green Square urban renewal precinct.
The suburb offers a variety of amenities centered around active lifestyle and community engagement, including Waterloo Park and the sprawling Waterloo Green. Residents have access to the Danks Street precinct, which is known for its concentration of contemporary art galleries, cafes, and boutique dining options. Historically, Waterloo was once an industrial powerhouse established in the early 19th century, named after the Battle of Waterloo. While much of its original industrial character has been repurposed, the area retains significant heritage value through its Victorian-era terrace houses and industrial buildings converted for modern use, reflecting the transition of the area from a working-class manufacturing hub to a modernized urban environment.
Recorded offence categories
| Category | Current period | Previous period |
|---|---|---|
| Malicious damage to property | 219 | 185 |
| Steal from dwelling | 176 | 169 |
| Intimidation, stalking and harassment | 162 | 161 |
| Breach Apprehended Violence Order | 157 | 103 |
| Breach bail conditions | 156 | 114 |
| Non-domestic violence related assault | 148 | 155 |
| Other theft | 147 | 123 |
| Domestic violence related assault | 125 | 142 |
| Fraud | 120 | 144 |
| Break and enter dwelling | 99 | 103 |
| Possession and/or use of amphetamines | 81 | 53 |
| Steal from motor vehicle | 77 | 71 |
| Possession and/or use of cannabis | 76 | 56 |
| Prohibited and regulated weapons offences | 76 | 67 |
| Receiving or handling stolen goods | 74 | 78 |
| Trespass | 50 | 31 |
| Other offences | 39 | 30 |
| Steal from retail store | 36 | 49 |
Community context
The 2021 Census recorded 16,379 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.