Understanding changes in crime statistics is essential for residents, investors, and anyone considering a move to Bundaberg. Over the past five years, Bundaberg crime rates have seen both fluctuations and steady patterns, reflecting broader social, economic, and policing trends in the region. This article explores how crime has evolved in Bundaberg, what the key influences have been, and what this means for the future of the community. As a local property expert, Scott Wade continues to monitor these changes closely to help homeowners and buyers make informed decisions.

A General Overview of Crime in Bundaberg

Five years ago, Bundaberg was facing a notable level of concern around property crime, especially break-ins, vehicle thefts, and vandalism. Police reports and community feedback painted a picture of a city that was grappling with social challenges, including youth unemployment and substance abuse, which in turn impacted crime levels. However, law enforcement agencies and community programs began to implement more targeted strategies to curb criminal behaviour.

In the time since, Bundaberg crime rates have shown signs of improvement in several key areas, while also presenting new concerns in others. Like many regional cities in Queensland, Bundaberg’s crime trends are shaped by a mix of local issues and broader state-wide developments.

Property Crime: A Noticeable Decline

One of the most promising developments in Bundaberg’s crime profile has been the gradual reduction in property-related offences. Between 2020 and 2024, reported break-ins and vehicle thefts decreased steadily. This change has been linked to both improved community vigilance and stronger policing strategies, including the deployment of CCTV systems across neighbourhoods and business areas.

Homeowners and real estate professionals, including Scott Wade, have noted how the drop in property crime has helped restore confidence among buyers. People looking to relocate to Bundaberg or invest in the local housing market are finding the region increasingly attractive, especially in family-friendly suburbs with a strong sense of community.

Violent Crime Trends

While Bundaberg has seen positive strides in property crime, violent crime has remained a complex issue. Assaults, particularly domestic-related incidents, have seen minor increases in certain years. Police reports suggest this may be due to more people reporting such crimes rather than an actual surge in violence. Greater public awareness, improved support services, and destigmatisation have led more victims to come forward.

That said, police in Bundaberg continue to work alongside health services and social workers to prevent violent crime. Programs aimed at intervention, particularly for youth and domestic situations, are being expanded. These efforts play a vital role in reshaping Bundaberg into a safer and more supportive place for all its residents.

Drug-Related Offences: A Mixed Picture

Drug offences in Bundaberg have shown fluctuating patterns over the past five years. Initial increases were largely attributed to targeted police operations that uncovered a range of drug-related activities. As a result, arrest rates rose temporarily due to enhanced detection rather than increased criminal activity.

More recently, however, these figures have started to level out. Bundaberg has benefited from regional drug rehabilitation initiatives and community outreach that tackle the root causes of substance abuse. These efforts are helping to lower long-term drug dependency and reduce the associated criminal behaviour.

For professionals like Scott Wade, who work closely with families and investors, the decline in drug-related crime adds a layer of reassurance when discussing the future of Bundaberg neighbourhoods.

Youth Crime and Community Response

Youth crime remains an area of concern, particularly in central Bundaberg. Minor thefts, anti-social behaviour, and vandalism have periodically spiked, especially during school holidays. However, local schools, youth centres, and police have collaborated to create intervention programs that aim to redirect at-risk youth toward education, sport, and employment.

One such initiative includes after-school activities, mentorship schemes, and youth employment workshops. These community-led responses are proving to be effective, and Scott Wade has observed that areas where these programs are active often experience a stronger sense of cohesion and lower rates of youth-related crime.

The Outlook for Bundaberg

Overall, Bundaberg crime rates have trended positively over the last five years. While no region is completely free from crime, Bundaberg has demonstrated resilience and a commitment to improvement. Ongoing investment in safety infrastructure, combined with a proactive community, ensures that the region is headed in the right direction.

For buyers and investors considering Bundaberg, these trends present an encouraging picture. With crime steadily being addressed and safety continuing to improve, the appeal of Bundaberg’s suburbs, lifestyle, and property opportunities is growing stronger every year.

At Scott Wade, we believe in providing transparent and up-to-date insights that help you make the right move. Whether you're buying your first home, relocating for a fresh start, or investing in regional growth, understanding the local safety landscape is key — and Bundaberg continues to show strong signs of progress.