An examination of crime statistics paints a striking picture of danger across the Tasman. Government datasets reveal that certain urban centres in Australia and New Zealand record alarmingly high rates of violent, property and youth offences. These findings come not from sensationalist tabloids but from official reports compiled by crime statisticians and police agencies. An informed traveller planning a 2026 itinerary must therefore understand which locations pose heightened risk. By analysing crime counts, victim surveys and government action plans, this article distills the most hazardous cities to visit in both countries. Trends such as escalating assaults in remote communities, surging property crime in regional hubs and feelings of insecurity in major metro areas are highlighted. The narrative stays rooted in official evidence, while the tone stresses the gravity of the problem.[1]
Only government sources underpin this analysis. The article synthesises crime reports from the Queensland Government Statistician’s Office, the Northern Territory Police, the New South Wales Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research and New Zealand’s Ministry of Justice. These documents provide quantitative counts of offences, rates per 100,000 people and survey insights into public perceptions of safety. For consistency, the assessment focuses on recorded offences against the person (such as assault and sexual assault), offences against property (such as theft and break‑ins) and violent crime indicators. Where possible, rates are used to account for population differences, but counts also convey the magnitude of crime. Trends over time help identify whether danger is increasing or decreasing. By prioritising official facts, the article avoids unverified rumours and instead offers an evidence‑based travel safety report. Key findings show that regional centres often suffer higher crime rates than capital cities, that property crime surges in certain coastal hubs and that New Zealanders living in Auckland and Waikato report feeling increasingly unsafe[1][2].
New research from the New South Wales Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research underscores the danger facing travellers venturing into regional and rural NSW. In 2023 the rate of property crime in regional NSW was 59 percent higher than in Sydney, while violent crime was 57 percent higher[3]. Executive Director Jackie Fitzgerald notes that rural and remote locations have long recorded higher crime rates than the capital and that the gap has widened since 2004[3]. Particularly alarming is the far west of the state, where violent and property crime rates were almost three times the NSW average[3]. Although most property crime categories declined between 2004 and 2023, some offences surged: motor vehicle theft increased 20 percent, domestic assault rose 24 percent, non‑domestic assault climbed 14 percent and sexual assault jumped 47 percent between 2019 and 2023[4]. These figures suggest that travellers to remote NSW communities should exercise caution, especially at night and when leaving valuables unattended. The data emphasise that risk is not confined to big cities; sparsely populated regions can be far more dangerous.
The far west of New South Wales emerges as a hotspot for violence and property offences. In 2023 the rates of both violent and property crime in the far west were almost three times the state average[3]. Such staggering figures reveal a deep‑seated safety challenge. Factors contributing to these rates include isolation, limited policing resources and socio‑economic disadvantage. For tourists exploring iconic outback destinations like Broken Hill or remote national parks, these statistics mean extra vigilance is essential. Travellers should plan accommodation in secure areas, avoid walking alone after dark and remain aware of surroundings. Whilst some major offences such as murder and robbery declined statewide[5], the far west’s persistently high rates demand attention. The government’s data show that when crime reductions were achieved in Sydney, they were not matched in remote areas[3]. This imbalance suggests that targeted safety measures and community programs are needed to address violence in the outback.
Northern Territory police data for December 2023 provide granular insight into offences across the Territory’s towns. The statistics are particularly revealing given the Territory’s small population. Darwin recorded 229 offences against the person and 397 property offences in December 2023[6]. Palmerston, a satellite city near Darwin, registered 100 offences against the person and 200 property offences[7]. Alice Springs, the famous Red Centre town, recorded 210 offences against the person and a staggering 538 property offences[8]. Katherine had 103 offences against the person and 110 property offences[9]. Smaller towns like Tennant Creek had 37 offences against the person and 119 property offences[10]. Although per‑capita rates are not provided, the sheer counts relative to population size make these locations riskier than many larger cities. Violent offences such as assault dominate, while property offences such as break‑ins and theft are pervasive. The data underscore that visitors to the Northern Territory should not equate small town charm with safety.
As the Northern Territory’s capital and gateway to Kakadu, Darwin attracts tourists year‑round. Yet its crime statistics reveal underlying dangers. In December 2023 Darwin recorded 183 assaults, 17 sexual assaults and 229 total offences against the person[11][12]. Property crime was even more prevalent, with 397 offences including 35 house break‑ins, 21 commercial break‑ins and 181 thefts excluding motor vehicles[13]. These numbers highlight the risk of robbery and theft in central Darwin. Travellers should avoid carrying large amounts of cash, secure hotel rooms and be cautious in nightlife precincts. While no murders were recorded that month, the high volume of assaults underscores potential personal safety threats. Visitors should also be mindful of alcohol‑related violence, which contributes to the city’s reputation for disorder. Government data signal that the tropical capital may be vibrant, but caution remains paramount.
Alice Springs, often romanticised as an outback oasis, demonstrates some of the worst crime figures in the Northern Territory. In December 2023 the town recorded 189 assaults and 7 sexual assaults, contributing to 210 offences against the person[14]. Property crime far exceeded violence: there were 104 actual house break‑ins, 19 attempted break‑ins, 34 commercial break‑ins, 112 other thefts and 253 property damage offences, culminating in 538 property offences[15]. Such numbers reveal a community struggling with burglaries, vandalism and theft. For tourists visiting Uluru or exploring Indigenous art, the implication is clear: secure accommodation and vigilance are non‑negotiable. Locals and visitors alike face significant risk of assault, particularly in areas where alcohol misuse is prevalent. Government reports caution that seasonal fluctuations can cause crime rates to spike, so travellers should check for local advisories before arrival[8].
Katherine, situated on the Stuart Highway, and Tennant Creek, a mining town further south, also present serious safety concerns. In Katherine there were 92 assaults in December 2023 and a total of 103 offences against the person[16]. Property crime included 21 house break‑ins, 13 commercial break‑ins, 26 other thefts and 48 property damage offences, amounting to 110 property offences[17]. Tennant Creek reported 32 assaults and 37 offences against the person[18]. Although the town recorded no murder or manslaughter, its property offences were significant, with 43 house break‑ins, 16 commercial break‑ins and 22 thefts other than motor vehicle offences[19]. These statistics illustrate the vulnerability of travellers driving through the Territory; opportunistic theft and assault can occur in roadhouses or at camping sites. Adequate security measures, avoidance of isolated areas after dark and awareness of local conditions are essential in these gateway towns.
Queensland’s official crime report for 2023-24 presents a detailed breakdown of offences by Statistical Area Level 4 (SA4). The data reveal that regional centres rather than the state capital bear the brunt of violent and property crime. Townsville recorded the highest count of person offences in the state, with 8,663 offences against the person at a rate of 3,532.5 per 100,000 people[20]. The Queensland Outback region recorded the highest rate of person offences at 8,112.4 per 100,000 people[20]. Cairns, Central Queensland and Ipswich also posted high rates. When examining property crime, Townsville again stands out for experiencing the largest ten‑year increase: its property offence rate grew from 4,897.9 to 7,841.0 per 100,000 persons (a 60.1 percent jump) and its counts nearly doubled from 11,420 to 19,229 offences[21]. The Gold Coast recorded the highest volume of property offences, accounting for 12.6 percent of Queensland’s total[22]. These figures demonstrate that travellers to Queensland’s northern and coastal hubs face substantial risk.
Townsville, a major port and defence hub, exhibits some of Australia’s highest crime statistics. The Queensland crime report shows that Townsville recorded 8,663 offences against the person in 2023-24 at a rate of 3,532.5 per 100,000 people[20]. This means roughly one person offence for every 28 residents that year. Property crime also surged: Townsville experienced the largest ten‑year increase in recorded property offences, with the rate rising from 4,897.9 to 7,841.0 per 100,000 persons and counts soaring from 11,420 to 19,229[21]. Theft, burglary and unlawful entry dominated. Such statistics confirm the city’s reputation as Queensland’s crime capital. Travellers should be particularly careful in the central business district and certain suburbs at night. Vehicle theft has been a persistent issue, so secure parking and anti‑theft devices are essential. Despite the city’s tropical lifestyle and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, the government’s data underscore that Townsville poses severe safety challenges.
Cairns is famed as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef yet also records high crime rates. The Queensland report lists Cairns with 7,353 person offences in 2023-24 at a rate of 2,752.2 per 100,000 people[23]. Property offences in Cairns reached 18,524, with a rate of 6,933.5 per 100,000 people[24]. Although the rate declined slightly from the previous year, the numbers remain worrying. Central Queensland, encompassing Rockhampton and Gladstone, recorded 5,359 person offences at a rate of 2,234.8 per 100,000 and 12,704 property offences at a rate of 5,297.8 per 100,000[25][26]. These statistics highlight that holiday makers in these regions must remain vigilant. Theft from vehicles and accommodation is common, and travellers should avoid leaving belongings unattended. By choosing reputable operators, staying in secure premises and following local advice, visitors can reduce risk while enjoying natural wonders.
The Gold Coast and inner Brisbane offer glitzy tourism experiences but also harbour significant crime issues. The Gold Coast recorded 36,587 property offences in 2023-24, representing 12.6 percent of all property offences in Queensland[22]. The property offence rate rose to 5,307.1 per 100,000 people, reflecting a steady increase over the past decade[27]. Brisbane’s inner city recorded 4,520 person offences at a rate of 1,396.4 per 100,000 people and 26,008 property offences at a rate of 8,034.7 per 100,000[28][29]. High‑density living, nightlife and tourism contribute to theft, assault and robbery. Visitors should use hotel safes, remain aware of personal belongings and avoid isolated streets after dark. While police presence is strong, the government data show that opportunistic crime remains a persistent problem. The glamorous veneer of these cities hides a core of risk that travellers must navigate.
The Queensland Outback, covering vast tracts of sparsely populated land, recorded the highest rate of offences against the person at 8,112.4 per 100,000 people in 2023-24[20]. Property offence rates were also high at 7,656.2 per 100,000[30]. Yet the absolute number of offences (6,668 person offences and 6,293 property offences) is lower than in urban areas[31][32]. This reflects the tiny population base. For travellers, the key takeaway is that while the likelihood of encountering crime may appear high on a per‑capita basis, the actual number of incidents remains modest. However, the remoteness of the outback amplifies the consequences of crime. Victims may face delays in accessing police assistance or medical care. Tourists should plan itineraries carefully, carry communication devices, secure fuel and supplies, and inform others of travel plans.
The New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey provides a comprehensive national picture. Interviews with over 7,100 people between November 2022 and October 2023 revealed that 32 percent of New Zealanders experienced crime in the preceding 12 months[33]. This equates to 1.88 million incidents of crime[34]. Fraud was the most common offence, with 10 percent of New Zealanders victimised[35]. Vehicle theft also surged, increasing 47 percent from about 41,000 households in 2022 to around 60,000 households in 2023[36]. Violent crime remained significant, with 185,000 people victimised by physical or sexual assault or robbery[37]. Importantly, more New Zealanders felt unsafe in 2023 compared with 2018, especially those aged 30 and older, Asian adults and residents of Auckland or Waikato[38]. These statistics signal that travellers to New Zealand should not assume universal safety. The prevalence of fraud also means visitors must exercise caution when making online bookings or using electronic payment methods.
Although the New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey does not publish city‑specific crime counts, it highlights that residents of Auckland and Waikato feel particularly unsafe[39]. This perception stems from rising incidents of burglary, theft and vehicle theft, which are more commonly reported in metropolitan areas[40]. While Auckland remains New Zealand’s economic engine and cultural capital, the sense of insecurity has implications for travellers. Visitors should avoid leaving valuables in cars, use secure accommodation and remain vigilant in nightlife districts. Waikato, home to Hamilton, also experiences property crime and youth offending concerns. The Ministry of Justice notes a government target to reduce violent crime victims by 20,000 by 2029[41]. Achieving this goal will require focused policing and social programmes in urban areas where people feel unsafe. For 2026 travellers, an awareness of these concerns is essential.
The New Zealand Government’s Reduced Violent Crime Delivery Plan identifies certain cities for targeted youth and violence interventions. The plan notes that Oranga Tamariki Intensive Case Management Teams operate in Hamilton, Rotorua and Christchurch[42]. These teams aim to break cycles of youth offending by providing intensive support. The presence of such initiatives suggests that these cities have significant youth crime issues requiring government intervention. Additionally, a Military Style Academy Pilot has been completed to support young people[43]. Another focus is protecting retail businesses: between September 2022 and September 2025, 1,135 stores that suffered ram raids or aggravated robberies had security installations, totalling 4,506 measures[44]. The prevalence of ram raids has hit urban centres, especially in and around Auckland, and the government’s response indicates serious concern. Travellers visiting Hamilton, Rotorua or Christchurch should be aware of youth gangs and ensure they avoid deserted areas at night.
While assaults and break‑ins dominate physical crime statistics, the New Zealand survey reveals that fraud is the nation’s most common offence[35]. Unauthorised bank transactions and scam online purchases account for most fraud incidents[45]. Vehicle theft is another rapidly growing problem, with a 47 percent increase between 2022 and 2023[36]. The survey notes that vehicles parked on streets or driveways are more likely to be stolen[46]. In Australia, property offences such as theft and unlawful entry make up over half of recorded offences; for example, 51.1 percent of Queensland property offences were classified as other thefts in 2023-24[47]. Ram raids, where offenders use vehicles to smash into retail premises, have become a prominent issue in New Zealand. The Ministry of Justice reports that more than a thousand stores affected by ram raids or aggravated robberies had security measures installed[44]. Travellers should thus be cautious when shopping, avoid carrying unnecessary valuables and prefer secure parking. These crime types transcend geography, so vigilance is necessary across both countries.
Both Australia and New Zealand have introduced policies to combat rising crime. In New South Wales, authorities highlight that property crime declined over the past decade but certain offences such as domestic assault and sexual assault have risen, prompting targeted programs[4]. In Queensland, the state government monitors crime trends and provides detailed statistics to inform policing strategies. For New Zealand, the government set a target to reduce the number of people who are victims of assault, robbery or sexual assault by 20,000 by December 2029[41]. Its Reduced Violent Crime Delivery Plan includes measures to disrupt gang activity, support young people and expand mental health and addiction services[48]. Police have seized gang patches and firearms and laid hundreds of insignia charges[49]. Support for retailers includes installing security devices in stores impacted by ram raids[44]. Such interventions demonstrate a multi‑faceted approach to reducing violent and property crime, though their success will only be evident over time.
Understanding crime statistics is the first step in staying safe while travelling. Visitors to Australia’s and New Zealand’s high‑risk cities should adopt proactive measures. In Townsville, Cairns, Alice Springs and Darwin, avoid walking alone at night, secure accommodations and park vehicles in locked garages. In New South Wales’ far west and regional towns, maintain situational awareness and adhere to local advice. When visiting Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua or Christchurch, be wary of crowded places where pickpocketing can occur and remain cautious when using ATMs. Keep digital devices secured to prevent unauthorised access, and use reputable booking platforms to avoid fraud. For road trips through the Queensland or Northern Territory outback, inform someone of your itinerary, carry emergency supplies and avoid isolated rest stops after dark. By combining government data with sensible precautions, travellers can enjoy these destinations while minimising risk.
Government crime statistics from both sides of the Tasman paint a sobering picture. Regional and remote areas of Australia, particularly the far west of New South Wales and the Northern Territory, record high rates of violence and property crime[3][8]. Within Queensland, Townsville stands out as the city with the highest count of person offences, while the Gold Coast and Brisbane inner city suffer large volumes of property crime[20][21]. New Zealand faces a wave of fraud, vehicle theft and ram raids, with citizens in Auckland and Waikato feeling increasingly unsafe[38]. Government interventions, such as security installations for ram‑raid‑hit stores and youth crime programmes in Hamilton, Rotorua and Christchurch, show commitment but also highlight where danger is concentrated[42]. Travellers in 2026 can still enjoy the rich cultures and landscapes of Australia and New Zealand, but should do so with eyes open, armed with knowledge from official sources and ready to adopt safety practices.
[1] [3] [4] [5] NSW Recorded Crime Statistics quarterly update December 2023 | BOCSAR
[2] [33] [34] [35] [36] [37] [38] [39] [40] [41] [45] [46] [50] New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey Published | New Zealand Ministry of Justice
[6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11] [12] [13] [14] [15] [16] [17] [18] [19] NT_crime_statistics_Dec_2023_website.pdf
Click to access NT_crime_statistics_Dec_2023_website.pdf
[20] [21] [22] [23] [24] [25] [26] [27] [28] [29] [30] [31] [32] [47] Crime report, Queensland, 2023-24
Click to access crime-report-qld-2023-24.pdf
[42] [43] [44] [48] [49] Reduced violent crime | New Zealand Ministry of Justice
https://www.justice.govt.nz/justice-sector-policy/key-initiatives/reduced-violent-crime/
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