Reports for domestic violence assault, break and enter and motor vehicle theft have increased in the Western Plains in the latest quarterly crime update from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOSCAR), released last week.

Domestic violence related assault increased an average 3.9 per cent yearly from March 2020 to March 2024 in the Far West and Orana region.

The hike in DV-related assault reports are in line with follow the state-wide trend.

NSW recorded a 3.7 per cent yearly jump in DV assault reports over the five year period, as well as a 1.9 per cent rise for non-DV assault.

Quarterly data from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research did not calculate rates for Bogan, Brewarrina, Bourke and Warren Local Government Areas. SOURCE: BOSCAR

Non-DV-related assaults rose 4.3 per cent for the yearly average over the same period, while break and enter into non-dwellings increased 3.1 per cent, motor vehicle theft rose 7.6 per cent and stealing from retail stores rose 5 per cent. 

Rates for other major crimes in the region remained largely stable, although the category 'other stealing offences' recorded a 4.1 per cent drop in the yearly average over the five-year period.

Coonamble had some of the highest crime rates in the Western Plains over the 12 months up to March 2024. This truck in the town was burned only last month.

Walgett held the highest assault rates in the Western Plains for the 12 months leading up to March 2024.

The Local Government Area (LGA) recorded 1595 reports of non-DV assault per 100 000 people, with the rate stable over the five-year trend.

When it comes to DV assault, Walgett had 3571 reports per 100 000 people, up 9.4 per cent a year over the five-year trend.

Coonamble and Lachlan LGAs ranked highest for motor vehicle theft in the 12 months to March 2024.

Lachlan Shire had a rate of 668 reports per 100 000 people, Coonamble 653.

Western Plains areas generally reported higher crime rates than the rest of the state. BOSCAR did not calculate rates for Bogan, Bourke, Brewarrina and Warren LGAs. SOURCE: BOSCAR

Coonamble ranked worst in the plains for break and enters into dwellings, with 1595 reports per 100 000 people for the 12-month period.

The LGA also leads the region for break-ins into non-dwellings, with 1124 reports per 100 000 people.