New South Wales has witnessed an unprecedented escalation in domestic violence-related stalking and intimidation incidents, reaching record levels in 2025 according to official crime statistics. The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) revealed a concerning 9.8 percent increase in domestic violence incidents over the two-year period ending December 2025, with nearly 20,000 additional reports compared to 2016 figures.
The data indicates a complex landscape where increased reporting reflects both enhanced police enforcement and proactive detection measures rather than necessarily indicating higher prevalence rates. BOCSAR Executive Director Jackie Fitzgerald emphasized that rising legal actions demonstrate improved police response, supported by stable hospitalization rates and domestic violence-related homicide statistics.
Simultaneously, breaches of Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) rose by 4.5 percent, with approximately 27,500 violations recorded. This surge occurs against a backdrop of police staffing challenges, with officer numbers reportedly falling below levels seen seven years ago despite recruitment efforts and substantial pay increases.
Opposition police spokesman Anthony Roberts expressed deep concern regarding 32 recorded domestic violence-related murders and rising AVO breaches, stating that ‘fewer officers are having to do more,’ creating enormous strain on law enforcement personnel. Regional communities particularly face disproportionate crime rates, including higher incidents of murder and domestic violence-related assault.
The report did highlight positive developments in regional youth offending, with court actions decreasing by 13.7 percent overall and up to 34 percent in some areas. Police Minister Yasmin Catley acknowledged the progress while emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing necessary resources, including officer training and legislative changes such as coercive control laws implemented in July 2024.
Between July 2024 and December 2025, police recorded 473 coercive control incidents involving harassment, threats, and financial abuse, with 94 percent of victims being women. While 22 charges were laid, only five cases had been finalized by year’s end, illustrating the complexities of implementing new legal frameworks.